KNOXVILLE, Tenn. (WOKI / WVLT) – Tennessee has confirmed its first measles cases in more than two decades, prompting health officials in East Tennessee to encourage residents to verify their vaccination status and understand the risks associated with the highly contagious disease.
State health officials have confirmed two measles cases in Middle Tennessee. While no cases have been reported in East Tennessee, the Knox County Health Department says now is the time for residents to make sure they are protected.
Health experts warn that measles spreads easily, particularly among people who have not been vaccinated. According to local health officials, nine out of 10 unvaccinated individuals exposed to measles can become infected.
The virus can remain airborne for up to an hour after a contagious person leaves an area, increasing the risk of exposure in public spaces. Common symptoms include fever, cough, runny nose, red eyes and a characteristic red rash that spreads across the body.
Officials say anyone who remains symptom-free for more than 21 days after a potential exposure is generally no longer considered at risk of developing the disease.
Vaccination Remains Best Protection
The Knox County Health Department says the MMR vaccine, which protects against measles, mumps and rubella, remains the most effective defense against infection.
Health officials report that two doses of the vaccine are approximately 97% effective at preventing measles.
The recommended vaccination schedule includes:
- First MMR dose at 12 months of age
- Second MMR dose between ages 4 and 6
For adults who are unsure whether they received the vaccine as children, officials say protection may still be available.
“It’s more about your health status and whether or not you can get the vaccine than it is about age once you become an adult,” said Karen Treece, Division Director of Compliance for the Knox County Health Department.
Treece noted that pregnant women and individuals with weakened immune systems should speak with their healthcare provider before receiving the vaccine.
Protecting Vulnerable Populations
Health officials emphasize that some people cannot safely receive vaccinations, including newborn babies, certain pregnant women and those with compromised immune systems.
Those individuals depend heavily on strong community vaccination rates, often referred to as herd immunity, to reduce their risk of exposure.
The recent cases have renewed concerns among some East Tennessee parents.
Lauren, a Knoxville mother of two, said news of the Tennessee cases brought back memories of worrying about her youngest child before she was old enough to receive the vaccine.
“Hearing about that was really tough,” Lauren said. “There was a big fear because we couldn’t get her vaccinated till she was a year. It’s definitely scary knowing how deadly it can be.”
Although there are currently no cases reported in East Tennessee, Lauren said the outbreak elsewhere in the state remains concerning.
“It’s nerve wracking,” she said. “We’ve taken preventative measures, but we also want to have more children. The idea of another year of fear like we had before is really disappointing.”
Lauren said she supports personal choice but believes people should consider the impact their decisions have on vulnerable members of the community.
“When herd immunity exists for our really vulnerable population, especially our children, I think it’s really important that we utilize that,” she said.
How to Check Your Vaccination Status
Residents who are uncertain about their MMR vaccination history can contact the Knox County Health Department’s Immunization Program.
Officials can search records for individuals born in Tennessee or whose immunization records have been transferred to the state’s system.
MMR Vaccine Status Information:
📞 Knox County Health Department Immunization Program: 865-215-5150
To Schedule a Vaccination Appointment:
📞 Knox County Health Department: 865-215-5000
Additional information is available through the Knox County Health Department’s immunization resources.
