Calvin Smith, M.D., a Meharry Medical Group physician, answered questions about the increase of measles virus cases in the United States including in Tennessee.
Measles is a highly contagious, airborne viral disease. It spreads easily when an infected person breathes, coughs or sneezes. It can cause severe disease, complications, and even death. The disease can affect anyone but is most common in children.
The symptoms of measles include high fever, runny nose, red eyes, cough, and white spots in the mouth, followed by a rash 10-14 days after someone is exposed to the virus. While most people who contract the virus recover within 2-3 weeks, without specific antiviral treatment, complications like pneumonia, encephalitis, blindness, or death can happen. This is especially possible for an unvaccinated individual.
The best way to prevent getting sick is to be immunized with two doses of a vaccine against measles. The vaccine is a combination of measles-mumps-rubella (MMR). Two doses of the MMR vaccine are highly effective at preventing measles.
Meharry Medical Group’s Pediatric Clinic, Total Health Medical & Dental Care have MMR vaccines available.
Meharry Medical Group – 615.327.6348 or Total Health Medical & Dental Care – 615.963.2800
Eligible children from birth through 18 years of age may receive free, federally-funded vaccine. Free federal vaccine is available for uninsured adults age 19-64 for certain recommended vaccines.
For those traveling outside of the United States, contact us at the Meharry Community Wellness Center at 615-327-5788.
Address 1005 Dr. D.B. Todd, Jr, Blvd., Suite #333; Office Hours: Monday – Friday 8:30 a.m. – 4:30 p.m.
