Measles Alert: What You Need to Know

Measles has made a comeback in North Carolina. A child in the Greensboro area tested positive for the virus. This has put hospitals in the Triangle area on high alert. They are watching for any new cases. Measles is highly contagious. It can spread through the air and stay on surfaces. Experts say it was only a matter of time before the virus showed up in the state. The virus was eliminated in the U. S. in 2000. But now, it's back and spreading. Why is this happening? Experts point to a drop in vaccination rates. During the pandemic, false information about vaccines spread. Some people believed the MMR vaccine causes autism. This is not true. The vaccine is safe and effective. Dr. Michael Smith, a pediatric infectious disease specialist, is concerned. He says measles can make you very sick. There is no treatment for it. The best protection is the vaccine. This year, over 1, 220 measles cases and three deaths have been reported in the U. S. Most of these cases were in unvaccinated people. Experts agree that good communication is key. Doctors, nurses, and health departments need to work together. They need to spot cases early and slow the spread. If you're planning to travel and aren't vaccinated, be extra careful. Measles can spread easily in airports and other public places. The best thing you can do is get vaccinated.