Measles frequently asked questions (faq)
What is measles?
Measles is a highly contagious viral illness that is characterized by a high fever, followed by a rash. It spreads easily through the air when an infected person breathes, coughs or sneezes, or by touching a contaminated surface. The virus can remain in the air for 2 hours after an infected person leaves an area.
Measles is usually self-limited, meaning that if you are infected with measles, the virus usually runs its course without significant complications. However, it can lead to serious complications such as ear infections, diarrhea, pneumonia, hospitalization or death.
What are the symptoms?
Symptoms usually begin 7-14 days after being exposed to the measles virus but can take as long as 21 days after exposure to appear.
Symptoms usually start with a high fever, runny nose, cough, and red, watery eyes. 3-5 days later, a rash starts on the face and spreads to the rest of the body.
People with the measles are contagious from 4 days before the rash started to 4 days after the rash appeared.
Am I at risk?
You are considered to have immunity against measles if you meet at least one of the following criteria:
-You have received 2 doses of measles-containing vaccine at appropriate intervals
-You have laboratory evidence of immunity
-You have laboratory-confirmed evidence of disease
-You were born before 1957
Anyone who has not received vaccination against measles, has only received 1 dose of the vaccine or has never had measles before is at risk of contracting the disease.
Still not sure if you are at risk? Complete this self-quiz to see if you are considered immune to measles.
How do I find my records?
Per North Carolina State law, students attending a college or University (public, private, religious) are required to receive certain immunizations to attend school.
If you have submitted immunization records through the Patient portal, you may view your records here.
Click here for suggestions on locating your immunization records if you are unable to locate them.
If you are still unable to locate them, you can have a healthcare provider draw blood to see if you have immunity to measles.
Do I need to get vaccinated?
The best way to protect yourself and your loved ones from measles is to have MMR vaccination. The measles-mumps-rubella vaccine (MMR) has been proven over the years to be very safe and effective in preventing disease.
Students who are not immune and would like to receive the MMR can call the Student Health Services Immunization Department (336-334-4086) to schedule an appointment.
I am having symptoms; what should I do?
If you have had 2 doses of the MMR vaccine or proof of immunity from laboratory testing, it is not likely your symptoms are from measles.
If you have not been vaccinated or only have received one shot for the measles, it is important that you seek medical care immediately.
-However, it is critical that you call the medical facility in advance (if possible) to inform them that you are coming to reduce the risk of exposing others.
-Please wear a mask when seeking care.
-Students: Call Student Health Services at 336-334-5340 and select option 7. Hours of operation are M-F, 8 AM – 5 PM. After hours, you can reach our 24-7 nurse call line by calling 336-334-5340 and selecting option 7.
I have been exposed; what should I do?
Measles exposure happens if:
-You share indoor space with someone who has measles and can spread it, or
-You go into an indoor space within two hours after a person with measles leaves.
People with measles can spread it to others from four days before through four days after the rash appears.
North Carolina Measles Exposure Locations
If you have had 2 doses of the MMR vaccine or proof of immunity from laboratory testing, it is unlikely that you will get measles.
-You may continue with normal activities as long as you are not experiencing symptoms.
-If you do develop symptoms, you should call your healthcare provider AND stay at home away from others until you are seen by a provider.
If you have not received 2 doses of the MMR vaccine or have had negative bloodwork for immunity and have been exposed, you should quarantine yourself away from others and call your healthcare provider as soon as possible to see if you are eligible for post-exposure prophylaxis.