RALEIGH, NC (LOOTPRESS) — Health officials have confirmed the first case of measles in North Carolina this year. The case involves a child who became ill after traveling to the state from a country currently experiencing a measles outbreak. The child visited Forsyth and Guilford counties before becoming symptomatic.
To protect the family’s privacy, the North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services (NCDHHS) is not releasing identifying information. Officials say they are working closely with the Forsyth County Department of Public Health and the Guilford County Health Department to track potential exposures and notify anyone who may have come into contact with the virus.
Measles is a highly contagious disease that spreads easily through the air and on surfaces. The virus can remain in the air for up to two hours after an infected person leaves the area. Ninety percent of unvaccinated individuals who are exposed to measles will become infected.
Potential Exposure Locations Being Investigated
Health officials are identifying specific locations, dates, and times where the public may have been exposed. Anyone who may have visited those areas is urged to review their immunization records and consult their health care provider to ensure they are protected.
Symptoms of measles typically develop 7 to 21 days after exposure and can include:
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High fever (can spike over 104°F)
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Cough
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Runny nose
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Red, watery eyes
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Tiny white spots inside the mouth (Koplik spots)
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A red, blotchy rash that starts on the face and spreads
If symptoms appear, individuals are urged to call ahead before visiting a medical facility to help prevent spreading the virus to others.
Vaccination Urged to Prevent Spread
“This case is a clear reminder of the importance of staying up to date on vaccinations,” said NCDHHS Secretary Dr. Dev Sangvai. “Vaccination remains the best defense against measles and helps protect those who cannot be vaccinated, such as infants or people with compromised immune systems.”
All unvaccinated individuals aged 1 year and older are encouraged to receive the measles-mumps-rubella (MMR) vaccine. For those exposed, post-exposure prophylaxis (PEP) may be available in limited circumstances, particularly for infants, pregnant women, or immunocompromised individuals — though officials say the PEP window has closed for most potentially exposed people in this case.
Vaccines are available through health care providers and local health departments. Children who qualify for the Vaccines for Children program can receive vaccinations at no cost from participating providers.
As of June 19, more than 1,200 measles cases have been reported nationwide in 36 jurisdictions, raising concerns about a wider resurgence of the disease across the U.S.
For more information on measles and vaccination resources, visit: dph.ncdhhs.gov/measles.
