Preventing Measles - 2026 Update

Kids First Pediatrics of Raleigh and Clayton continues to monitor the ongoing measles outbreak in North Carolina. For the most up-to-date information, you can visit the North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services - Measles Cases and Outbreaks in North Carolina tracker. We are providing updated guidance from the American Academy of Pediatrics on the prevention and management of measles.

The following information is excerpted from “Measles: What Parents Need to Know,” by Andrew N. Hashikawa, MD, MS, FAAP & Adam Ratner, MD, MPH, FAAP, with the American Academy of Pediatrics.

First, “Measles is one of the most contagious diseases in the world. Measles infection can lead to serious health problems, especially in babies and young children. Fortunately, measles is a vaccine-preventable illness.”

The best way to avoid measles is by getting a vaccine. “About 95 of every 100 people will be protected after getting one dose of the MMR vaccine. Two doses of MMR vaccine protect 97-99 of every 100 people.”

The American Academy of Pediatrics recommended immunization schedule for measles is to administer the first MMR vaccine “when a child is 12 to 15 months of age, and with a second dose at their checkup when they are 4 to 6 years of age. Some children at higher risk may need 3 doses if there is a disease outbreak. Infants ages 6-12 months old can get a measles vaccine during an outbreak or before international travel to a location with an active measles outbreak.”

The American Academy of Pediatrics recommended immunization schedule is endorsed by AAP vaccine recommendations, which include:

• American Academy of Family Physicians

• American College of Nurse Midwives

• American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists

• American Medical Association

• American Pharmacists Association

• Council of Medical Specialty Societies

• Infectious Diseases Society of America

• National Association of Pediatric Nurse Practitioners

• National Medical Association

• Pediatric Infectious Diseases Society

• Pediatric Pharmacy Association

• Society for Adolescent Health and Medicine

What are the signs & symptoms of measles?

The most recognizable measles symptom is a very high fever accompanied by a red or brownish blotchy rash, although this is not the only symptom.

Before the rash appears, children with measles develop cold-like symptoms, including:

• Cough

• Runny nose

• Fever

• Red, watery eyes

These symptoms tend to get worse during the first 1 to 3 days of the illness.

More information

• Protecting Your Young Infant From Measles

• Measles: What Parents Need to Know

• Can Vitamin A Prevent or Cure Measles? (NO)

• Rubella (German Measles): What Parents Need to Know

• Recommended Immunization Schedules

• Vaccine Safety: The Facts

As always, speak with your children’s health care provider for more information for your family. Measles is a serious disease with significant and sometimes life-long health consequences. Curious about your child’s vaccination status? Need to schedule their next round of vaccinations? Give Kids First Pediatrics a call: Raleigh (919) 250- 3478, or Clayton (919) 267-1499.

This article is informational and is not a substitute for medical attention or information from your provider.