Measles
North Carolina has confirmed the first case of measles in 2025. The individual visited several places in Forsyth and Guilford counties. Many of the places visited are highly popular with children and families.
For more information regarding the places the individual visited with dates and times, please see the media advisory from the NC Department of Health and Human Services
It’s important to know that measles is an airborne disease which spreads through droplets when someone coughs or sneezes. It is highly contagious.
The NC Department of Health and Human Services is recommending all unvaccinated individuals ages one year and older receive measles vaccination to protect themselves and those around them. Approximately 90% of people who haven't been vaccinated will become infected when around someone with measles.
People with intellectual and developmental disabilities are at a higher risk for measles complications such as pneumonia and encephalitis (inflammation of the brain). Pregnant women could have serious complications during pregnancy such as miscarriage, prematurity, and low birth weight which could also result in an intellectual and/or developmental disability.
Symptoms include:
- Fever, which may be as high as 105 degrees Fahrenheit (40.6 degrees Celsius).
- Dry cough.
- Runny nose.
- Red, watering eyes, called conjunctivitis.
- Rash
North Carolina residents can contact their health care provider or visit their local health department for additional information on ways to obtain the vaccine and schedule an appointment.
Click below for resources to learn more about measles
The Arc of NC Measles One Pager
NC Division of Public Health Resources: English Spanish Russian Ukrainian