Atrium Health’s chief infection prevention officer says the measles vaccine is the best way to avoid serious illness.
CHARLOTTE, N.C. — An outbreak of measles in Texas has reignited discussions about vaccination importance, with health experts emphasizing the critical role of immunization in preventing the spread of the disease.
Dr. Katie Passaretti, Atrium Health’s chief infection prevention officer, told WCNC Charlotte that while no current cases have been reported in the Carolinas, diseases once considered historical can resurface, particularly in communities with low vaccination rates. The Texas outbreak has primarily affected children under 18, highlighting the vulnerability of unvaccinated populations.Â
“The best way to prevent illness is prevention,” Passaretti said, noting that the measles vaccine is 97% effective in preventing infection.Â
She strongly recommends that parents consult with health care providers about vaccinating their children.
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Key points from the outbreak include:
- Young, unvaccinated children are most at risk
- Individuals born before 1957 likely have natural immunity from prior infection
- Adults can verify their vaccination status through medical records or antibody testing
Passaretti stressed that while people should remain informed, there’s no need for immediate alarm.Â
“It’s something to be aware of, make sure you’re as protected as you can be in case the situation changes, but not cause for alarm by any stretch of the imagination,” she explained.
The expert’s primary message is clear: vaccination remains the most effective defense against potentially serious infectious diseases.
