Wake County Health Officials Urge Measles Vaccination Amid National Outbreak Spike

RALEIGH, NC — Wake County Public Health is issuing an urgent reminder to get vaccinated and protect yourself and your family against measles. While there have been no confirmed cases in Wake County since 2016, the rise in measles infections across the country means the virus could quickly resurface here without preventive action.

“Measles isn’t just a childhood illness—it can be dangerous for people of all ages,” said Wake County’s Public Health Director Rebecca Kaufman. “Vaccination protects not just you but your neighbors and the entire community.”

Why Vaccination Matters

• Measles spreads through the air via coughing or sneezing—and is extremely contagious.
• Up to 90% of people near an infected person will contract it if they’re not immune.
• Two doses of the MMR vaccine (Measles, Mumps & Rubella) are about 97% effective at preventing infection. One dose is 93% effective.

Who Should Be Vaccinated?

• Children: Two doses are recommended
  • 1st dose: between 12–15 months
  • 2nd dose: between 4–6 years old
• Adults born after 1957 who haven’t received the vaccine should also be vaccinated.

“We don’t want to wait for measles to show up before taking action,” said Wake County Commissioner Safiyah Jackson. “The MMR vaccine offers powerful protection and gives parents peace of mind.”

Know the Signs of Measles

According to the CDC, symptoms may appear 7–14 days after exposure, and a person is contagious even before the rash appears.

Symptoms include:

• High fever
• Cough
• Runny nose
• Red, watery eyes
• Rash

You can catch measles just by being in a room where someone with measles was – even up to two hours after they’ve left.

Where to Get Vaccinated

• The MMR vaccine is widely available at doctor’s offices, clinics, and pharmacies.
• Most offer same-day appointments and online scheduling.
• Wake County Public Health offers vaccines by appointment at their clinics.
  • Call 919-431-4000 to schedule
• Most health insurance plans, including Medicaid, cover the vaccine with no out-of-pocket cost.

Think You’ve Been Exposed to Measles?

If you believe you or a family member has been exposed:

• Do not visit a clinic or public space without calling ahead
• Self-isolate until further instructions from a healthcare provider

Learn more here.