07/31/2026
*Update on Local Measles Case*
Earlier this week, a confirmed case of measles was identified in Bedford County. We know that hearing this news is unsettling, especially for parents of our most vulnerable patients. Measles is an extremely contagious virus, and while most healthy children recover, it can cause serious illness—especially in infants, young children, pregnant individuals, and people with weakened immune systems.
The good news is that the MMR vaccine provides excellent protection, so the risk to our community remains low for those who are vaccinated.
🛡️ If your child is fully vaccinated (2 doses of the MMR vaccine, typically given at 12 months and 4 years of age):
The MMR vaccine provides excellent protection against measles. Most fully vaccinated children are at very low risk of becoming ill. Monitor for symptoms if your child may have been exposed, but no additional vaccination is recommended for most children who are up to date.
💉 If your child is NOT vaccinated or is behind on vaccines:
Please contact our office as soon as possible to discuss getting caught up on the MMR vaccine. Unvaccinated individuals are at the highest risk of infection and serious complications from measles.
👶 Infants 6–11 months old:
Because of the current outbreak, your infant may be eligible for an early ("zero dose") of MMR vaccine between 6 and 11 months of age. This dose helps provide temporary protection but does not count toward the routine childhood series. Your child will still need the standard MMR doses at 12–15 months and again at 4–6 years. Please call our office to discuss whether this recommendation applies to your child.
😷If your unvaccinated child had a known exposure to measles, they are eligible for a one-time dose of MMR vaccine, which when given within 72 hours of exposure can prevent illness or significantly reduce the severity of symptoms.
⚠️ Symptoms of measles include:
• High fever (often over 101°F and rising)
• Cough
• Runny nose
• Red, watery eyes
• A red rash that typically starts on the face and spreads downward
• Small white spots inside the mouth (Koplik spots) may appear before the rash
📞 Please contact our office immediately if:
• Your child develops symptoms consistent with measles.
• Your child has been exposed to someone with confirmed or suspected measles.
• Your child is not up to date on their MMR vaccine and you would like to schedule vaccination.
• You have an infant 6–11 months old and would like to discuss an early ("zero dose") MMR vaccine.
If your child is unvaccinated and has fever, rash or a known exposure to measles, please inform our staff at the time of scheduling. You may be asked to schedule a video visit before coming into the office, in order to keep our office as safe as possible for newborns, infants and those with compromised immune systems.
