Health Information for Parents and Caregivers

 

Dear Parent or Caregiver,

 

As national measles cases increase, we want to emphasize the importance of protecting our children in the school system. Measles is a highly contagious virus that can lead to serious health complications. The virus can remain airborne for up to two hours after an infected person has left the room. Symptoms include fever, runny nose, cough, red eyes and rash. Even in previously healthy children, measles can cause serious illness requiring hospitalization. Common complications are ear or throat infections. Less common but more serious complications are pneumonia and brain swelling. In some cases, it can even be fatal. The CDC has reported 1,362 cases of measles so far in 2026. There have been 24 cases of measles reported in North Carolina since December 2025. While there have been no reported cases of measles in Wilkes County so far, we strongly encourage all residents, schools, health care providers and child care centers to take the necessary precautions to protect themselves, their communities and those at highest risk, especially unvaccinated children.

 

The North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services (NCDHHS) states that children should receive the first dose of the MMR vaccine at 12-15 months and the second dose at 4-6 years of age. Older students who have not been fully vaccinated should receive the MMR vaccine as soon as possible to ensure they are protected. Two doses of the MMR vaccine are approximately 97 percent effective in preventing measles, and one dose is about 93 percent effective.  High vaccination rates in the community are crucial for preventing outbreaks and protecting children who cannot be vaccinated for medical reasons.

 

Parents are encouraged to check their child’s immunization records and schedule any necessary vaccinations as soon as possible. MMR vaccinations are available from local health providers, including the Wilkes County Health Department. If your child does not have proof of vaccination and is exposed to a positive measles case, they will be quarantined for 21 days from last exposure. This means they will not be able to attend school and must stay home during that time.

 

For more information, please call the Wilkes County Health Department or visit:

NCDHHS Measles Webpage

CDC Website

 

Thank you for your help in ensuring a healthy and safe environment for our children.

 

Sincerely,

Tonya Roland RN/CPHN

Communicable Disease/TB Nurse Coordinator