Measles was detected in Charlotte wastewater. Can it spread that way?
Measles has been detected in Mecklenburg County’s wastewater, signaling that the highly contagious virus is circulating in the region.
The sample came from the Sugar Creek Wastewater Treatment Plant as part of routine surveillance, The Charlotte Observer reported. No local cases have been reported.
With cases rising across the Carolinas and the country, health leaders are urging residents to make sure they’re up to date on their measles vaccinations, calling it the best protection against an outbreak. But can you get the virus from coming into contact with wastewater?
Here’s what you need to know.
Can you get measles from wastewater?
No. Measles spreads through the air when an infected person breathes, coughs or sneezes — it’s not a waterborne disease.
When wastewater testing detects measles, it’s finding tiny genetic traces that people have washed down drains. By the time anything reaches a sewer system, it’s diluted and broken down, so the water itself isn’t a risk.
How does measles show up in wastewater?
Measles shows up in wastewater because infected people naturally shed tiny bits of the virus in things like mucus, saliva and stool. When they wash their hands, shower or use the bathroom, those traces get rinsed down drains and into the sewer system.
Measles symptoms
Measles symptoms typically appear seven to 14 days after infection, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
Common initial symptoms include:
- High fever
- Cough
- Runny nose
- Red, watery eyes
After two to three days of symptoms, the CDC adds, tiny white spots known as Koplik spots may appear inside the mouth.
The rash associated with measles typically appears three to five days after symptoms set in. The rash usually starts as flat red spots on the face at the hairline and can spread down the body. It may be accompanied by small raised bumps and/or a fever spike to more than 104° Fahrenheit.
Mecklenburg Public Health recommends anyone with measles symptoms seek medical care immediately and call ahead before visiting a doctor’s office, clinic or emergency room “to get instructions to prevent further spread” of the disease.
How effective is the measles vaccine?
The MMR vaccine is the best line of defense against the virus, Dr. David Wohl, an infectious disease expert at UNC Health, previously told The Observer.
Mecklenburg County Public Health encourages residents to stay up-to-date on the MMR vaccine, Washington said, adding that two doses of the vaccine prevent disease in 97% of people.
Who should get the measles vaccine?
Most children receive two doses of the MMR vaccine, one at 12-15 months and another at 4-6 years, while adults who are unvaccinated or unsure of their status should check with a health care provider, according to the N.C. Department of Health and Human Services.
People born before 1957 are generally considered immune, though an additional dose is safe, Wohl said.
The vaccine is not recommended for infants under 1 year old or for people who are severely immunocompromised, such as those undergoing chemotherapy.
Where to get the measles vaccine in Charlotte
You can visit any of the following places for MMR vaccines in NC:
- Pharmacies: Walk in or schedule appointments at pharmacies like CVS and Walgreens. You can also inquire with local neighborhood pharmacies.
- Some grocery and big box stores with pharmacies: Walk in or schedule appointments at stores like Walmart, Target and Publix.
- Your healthcare provider: Of course, you can contact your doctor for an appointment.
