Arkansas officials urge measles awareness after 6 cases confirmed in Memphis

LITTLE ROCK — Arkansas health officials are urging residents to stay up-to-date on their vaccinations after six cases of measles were confirmed in Memphis.

The Shelby County Health Department has confirmed the measles in Memphis — directly across the Mississippi River from West Memphis.

Measles is a highly contagious viral infection that begins with a high fever, runny nose, cough and red eyes. A rash follows, starting on the head and moving down the body.

In some cases, the disease can be fatal, but it is preventable with the measles, mumps and rubella vaccine.

People born before 1957 are considered immune, and those who received two doses of measles vaccine as children according to the U.S. vaccination schedule are considered protected from measles for life.

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