Measles Is Back in Arkansas. Here’s What Parents Need to Know—And Do—Right Now

You do everything you can to keep your child safe. But sometimes the danger isn’t visible—until it’s already here.

Right now, measles is spreading again. It’s back in Arkansas for the first time in years, with confirmed cases in children who were not vaccinated. This isn’t just another headline. It’s a wake-up call for parents across our state.

At My Kids Pediatric Clinic, part of Healthy Connections Community Health Network, we believe protecting your child starts with facts—backed by science and delivered with compassion.

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Why You Should Take Measles Seriously

Measles is one of the most contagious viruses in the world. A single infected person can expose up to 90% of unvaccinated people around them. The virus spreads through coughing, sneezing, and can linger in the air for up to two hours after the person has left.

Who Is Most at Risk?

• Infants too young to be vaccinated
• Children and adults who haven’t received both MMR doses
• People with weakened immune systems who can’t receive live vaccines

Measles is not a routine childhood illness—it can cause pneumonia, brain swelling, hearing loss, and even death. Vaccination remains the safest and most effective way to prevent it.

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MMR Vaccine Guidance: What’s Changed?

The CDC now recommends that infants aged 6 to 11 months may receive an early dose of the MMR vaccine during a measles outbreak. While this dose doesn’t count toward the routine two-dose series, it does provide early protection in high-risk areas like Arkansas.

Standard MMR Schedule:

• First dose: 12–15 months
• Second dose: 4–6 years
• Early dose (during outbreaks): 6–11 months

At My Kids Pediatric Clinic, our providers will help you decide if early vaccination is right for your child. If your clinic doesn’t have the vaccine on-site, we’ll coordinate a prescription to your local pharmacy (for children 8 and older) or refer you to the Arkansas Department of Health.

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Clearing Up Misinformation About Measles

Myth: The MMR vaccine caused the outbreak.

Fact: Nearly all current cases are in unvaccinated individuals. The MMR vaccine is 97% effective after two doses and does not cause measles.

Myth: Vitamin A prevents or cures measles.

Fact: Vitamin A may reduce the severity of symptoms—but it does not prevent or treat measles. Relying on this instead of the vaccine is dangerous.

Myth: Measles isn’t serious anymore.

Fact: Before the vaccine, hundreds of children in the U.S. died from measles each year. It’s serious. And it’s back because vaccination rates have dropped.

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When Should My Child Get the Measles Vaccine?

• 12–15 months: First routine dose
• 4–6 years: Second routine dose
• 6–11 months: Early dose (only during outbreaks—ask your provider)
• Adults born after 1957: Should confirm immunity and consider vaccination if unsure

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How to Protect Your Family Right Now

✔ Check your child’s vaccination record and catch up if needed
✔ Talk to a trusted pediatric provider—not social media—for accurate answers
✔ Schedule your child’s MMR vaccine if they haven’t had both doses
✔ Limit exposure in crowded areas if your child is too young or unable to be vaccinated

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We’re Here to Help You Make the Right Call

You don’t have to figure this out alone. At My Kids Pediatric Clinic, we talk with concerned parents every day. Whether you need help deciding on early vaccination, accessing a dose, or just want the facts—we’re here for you.

Call 888-710-8220 to schedule your child’s appointment

Visit MyKidsPediatric.com to learn more about MMR vaccination in Arkansas

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