Press release from NC Pediatric Society:
N.C. PEDIATRIC SOCIETY STATEMENT ABOUT MEASLES
Raleigh, N.C. – In response to the recent measles outbreaks in the United States, the North Carolina Pediatric Society (NCPeds) today reminded North Carolinians about the importance of obtaining the measles, mumps and rubella (MMR) vaccine.
“The North Carolina Pediatric Society recommends that every child of appropriate age receive the measles, mumps and rubella vaccine as soon as he or she is old enough,” said NCPeds President Debbie Ainsworth, MD, FAAP. “Measles is a contagious and potentially dangerous disease that can be easily and fully prevented with this vaccine. We urge each North Carolinian to consult his or her family doctor or pediatrician about the MMR vaccine to curb the spread of this illness.”
Measles is a respiratory illness that includes symptoms of fever, runny nose, watery red eyes, cough and a red rash that covers the body. It is spread through the air by coughing and sneezing as well as coming into contact with an infected person.
Measles can cause pneumonia and other complications in high risk populations such as young children and adults over the age of 20 and can cause serious risks including miscarriage or premature birth for pregnant women.
Although measles cases continue to be found nationwide, the North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services reports that no measles cases have been reported in the state in 2015.
ABOUT THE NORTH CAROLINA PEDIATRIC SOCIETY
Founded in 1931, the North Carolina Pediatric Society (NCPeds) is the state affiliate Chapter of the American Academy of Pediatrics with nearly 2,000 pediatrician and pediatric health professional members. Its mission is to empower pediatricians and its partners to foster the physical, social, and emotional well-being of infants, children, adolescents and young adults.
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