Measles has just been detected in Mecklenburg County wastewater – health officials are now urging residents to check their vaccination status.
The highly contagious disease was specifically detected in a sample coming from the Sugar Creek Wastewater Treatment Plant. Public Health said the finding signals possible community exposure.
Health officials say vaccination remains the strongest protection. Public Health recommends the measles, mumps, rubella (MMR) vaccine for anyone unvaccinated and at least 1 year old. The vaccine is available through healthcare providers and retail pharmacies across Mecklenburg County, and it is offered free or low-cost at Public Health clinics.
“Vaccination remains the best tool we have to prevent illness and protect our community from a large-scale outbreak,” said Dr. Raynard Washington, Mecklenburg County Public Health director in a press release. “With measles detected in the county’s wastewater, now is the time to make sure your kids are up to date on their vaccines as cases continue to rise in the Carolinas and across the country. The measles vaccine is safe and highly effective.”
Measles is a highly contagious disease that spreads through the air and by direct contact. It can remain in the air for up to two hours after an infected person coughs, sneezes, or breathes. Symptoms often begin with fever, cough, and runny nose, followed by a rash that typically lasts five to six days. People with measles should stay home from work or school for four days after the rash appears.
Officials urge anyone who develops symptoms to call a doctor, clinic, or emergency department before arriving, so staff can provide instructions to prevent further spread. The MMR vaccine is about 97% effective after two doses, typically given at 12–15 months and again at 4–6 years.
