CHARLOTTE, N.C. (WBTV) – Following the day two measles cases were confirmed in Mecklenburg County, health officials set up a discussion to answer questions about the virus and its treatment.
Related:2 measles cases confirmed in Mecklenburg County, health officials say
You can watch the stream live at 2:30 p.m.in the video player above.
Mecklenburg County Public Health Officials said the cases involved an adult and child who had been in contact with a child from Spartanburg, South Carolina, considered the epicenter of the outbreak.
Since last fall, 700 cases have been confirmed by the South Carolina Department of Public Health.
Related: New measles map shows vaccination rate, risk for each US county, zip code
What is the measles virus?
Measles is a highly contagious virus and is spread through the air and by person-to-person contact. It can remain airborne for up to two hours.
“Measles is a highly contagious disease caused by a virus that affects the respiratory tract, and can result in serious complications affecting the brain, blood cells, complications in pregnancy, and long-term neurologic effects,” said Dr. Linda Bell, state epidemiologist and Health Programs Branch director, in an issued statement.
It can lead to hospitalization and/or death. Symptoms include:
- High fever (may spike to more than 104 degrees)
- Cough
- Runny nose
- Red, watery eyes
- Tiny white spots on the inner cheeks, gums and roof of the mouth (Koplik Spots) two to three days after symptoms begin
- A rash that is red, raised, blotchy; usually starts on face, spreads to trunk, arms and legs within three to five days after symptoms begin
See also: Why measles are so transmissible
Vaccine prevention
According to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, the measles, mumps and rubella (MMR) vaccine is 97% effective against measles and 86% effective against mumps if both doses of the vaccine are given.
The MMR vaccine is a common part of routine vaccination for children. The first dose is usually given between 12 and 15 months old, and the second between ages 4 and 6. Earlier doses may be given to children traveling internationally.
See also:Safety Alert: Measles vaccine recommendations
People who have already been exposed to measles can still get the vaccine.
For more information about measles, visit the South Carolina Department of Public Health website.
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