Know Your Measles Immunization Status

Sent on behalf of Student Health 

As part of Meredith College’s commitment to public health, this message is to raise awareness of the rise of measles cases in our region.

The Wake County Health Department announced a measles case this week in Raleigh. While there are no cases of measles currently at Meredith College, this local case provides impetus to offer information in the event that such an issue occurs at Meredith.

Because measles is a highly contagious viral illness that spreads from person to person, preparing in advance is an important way to control the spread. In the event of a measles outbreak, quarantine for up to 21 days would be required by the local or state health department for individuals who have been exposed and are unable to show their immunization record or proof of immunity. Learn more about measles symptoms.

Individuals are considered to have protection against measles if they have any of the following:

• Documentation of adequate vaccination, including

  • One or more doses of a measles-containing vaccine administered on or after the first birthday for preschool-age children and adults not at high risk; or

  • Two doses of a measles-containing vaccine, administered at least 28 days apart, for school-age children and adults at high risk, including college students, health care workers, and international travelers.

• Laboratory evidence of immunity; or

• Born before 1957; or

• Previous laboratory confirmation of disease.

If you are unsure of your status, visit the North Carolina Department of Public Health website to complete a self-guided tool that will walk you through questions to help you determine your immunization status.

Talking with your health care provider about your individual circumstances is also a good first step. If you believe you could have been exposed to measles, call your health care provider for instructions before going to a medical facility.

Thank you for your attention to this important health issue.

Mary Johnson, DNP, APRN, FNP-BC
Director of Student Health
mbjohnson@meredith.edu