MECKLENBURG COUNTY, N.C. — Two cases of measles have been confirmed in Mecklenburg County, including one adult who traveled to a confirmed case and one unvaccinated child who was in contact with a child from Spartanburg.
Health officials confirmed the illnesses today, stating the adult contracted measles through travel and the child from contact with an infected individual.
In response to this outbreak, health department officials are working to identify those who may have been in contact with the patients.
[ ALSO READ: Measles cases reach 558 in South Carolina, quarantine issued for students ]
Symptoms of measles typically include a fever, a runny nose, a cough, and a distinctive rash. Both patients are now isolated and recovering at home, according to health department officials.
Jayquan Williams, a parent, expressed surprise at the news of the measles cases, stating, “I mean, I haven’t gotten him vaccinated, yet obviously I would not want him to catch measles.”
He emphasized that he believes vaccinations are a personal choice.
In contrast, Debra Kocan, a grandparent invested in her grandson’s health, advocates for vaccinations, saying, “go and get your child vaccinated right away, I mean I wouldn’t take a risk.”
Jillian Harvey, another local parent, expressed her concerns about unvaccinated children: “I think to each his own, but I am concerned that it causes issues for other parents, like if you have a baby that is not able to get vaccinated yet, I think it’s a little unfair for our child to be exposed.”
North Carolina has reported a total of 13 measles cases since December, with two noted in Cabarrus County, while South Carolina’s total stands at 646 cases, predominantly in Spartanburg County.
Health department officials plan to hold a press conference tomorrow to address public concerns and provide further information about the cases.
VIDEO: Measles cases reach 558 in South Carolina, quarantine issued for students
This browser does not support the video element.