Over the past few months, measles outbreaks have been reported in various locations across the United States, including here in Saline County. We are writing this together as a pediatrician and the hospital’s infection preventionist, because it is important to all of us here at Saline Health System that our community understands the potential severity of this illness and how to best protect yourself and those you love. 

Some people think measles is just a simple rash – but this is far from the truth. Measles is a serious respiratory disease – especially for babies, young children and other unvaccinated individuals – that is easily spread through coughing and sneezing. In fact, it is the most contagious disease known at this time given its airborne nature. Common symptoms include high fever, cough, runny nose, conjunctivitis (pink eye), a flat, red rash beginning on the face then spreading down the neck and the rest of the body, and white spots found in the mouth. Severe cases of measles can cause health complications, including pneumonia, convulsions, brain damage and even death.  

While this extremely contagious virus poses a substantial health risk, the good news is that it is almost entirely preventable through immunization with the measles, mumps and rubella (MMR) vaccine. This means YOU can help stop the spread by getting vaccinated!  

Notably, 95 out of 100 people who are fully vaccinated will be protected from measles. Two doses of the MMR vaccine are recommended for children, the first to be administered between 12 and 15 months and the second between ages four and six. Adults born after 1957 who have not been vaccinated should also receive one to two doses of the MMR vaccine. 

Each of us has an important responsibility to protect ourselves and one another by staying current on age-appropriate immunizations, including the MMR vaccine, to help make Saline County and neighboring communities a safer and healthier place for all. By getting vaccinated against measles, you’re not only helping to protect yourself, but you’re also safeguarding others in your family and in our community as well. This is especially important when it comes to protecting those who may be at risk for serious complications but are not able to be vaccinated as they are too young, have a weakened immune system or an allergy to the vaccine.

As we continue to see more measles cases popping up across the country, I want to encourage everyone to know the signs and symptoms, and, most importantly, please get vaccinated. It only takes a few seconds to receive a vaccine, but it could save your life, your child’s life or another loved one. Consult with your healthcare provider today to ensure you and your family are fully vaccinated and up to date on all recommended immunizations.  

Like most vaccines, the MMR vaccine can cause minor side effects such as fever, rash, or sore arm at the injection site. These are generally mild and temporary.  Serious side effects are extremely rare. Extensive scientific research has shown that the MMR vaccine does not cause autism or other developmental or neurological problems.

More information about measles is available at www.cdc.gov/measles or https://healthy.arkansas.gov/programs-services/diseases-conditions/communicable-diseases/measles-rubeola/. 

By: Ajitha Yeluru, pediatrician, and Beth Felty, infection preventionist at Saline Memorial Hospital