First Measles Case of 2025 Reported in North Carolina

North Carolina health officials have confirmed the state’s first case of measles in 2025, involving a child who became ill while traveling to the state from a country experiencing a measles outbreak. The child visited Forsyth and Guilford counties, and the NC Department of Health and Human Services (NCDHHS) is working with local health departments to identify possible exposure sites.

To protect the family’s privacy, no further personal information has been released. However, the case is a reminder for South Durham families to stay alert and ensure vaccinations are up to date – especially with summer travel increasing exposure risks.

📅 Were You Possibly Exposed?

Were you or your relatives in these locations at these dates and times?
Source: NCDHHS

While no exposure sites have been reported in Durham County, residents who traveled through Forsyth or Guilford counties recently are encouraged to:

Check their MMR (measles, mumps, rubella) vaccine records.
Monitor for symptoms for up to 21 days after possible exposure.

Symptoms to watch for include:

Fever
Rash
Cough
Runny nose
Red, watery eyes

If symptoms develop, call your doctor before going in to avoid spreading the virus in waiting rooms.

💉 Vaccination Strongly Recommended

NCDHHS is urging all unvaccinated individuals ages 1 and older to get the measles vaccine. The MMR vaccine is highly effective and typically administered in two doses – one at age 1, and a second at age 4-6.

Those eligible for the Vaccines for Children program can receive the vaccine at no cost from enrolled providers, including most local health departments.

🧪 What If You’ve Been Exposed?

Most people don’t need lab testing unless they develop symptoms. However, higher-risk individuals – including:

Infants too young for vaccination
People with weakened immune systems
Pregnant women

…should contact a healthcare provider immediately to discuss post-exposure prophylaxis (PEP).

📍 Why This Matters in SoDu

While the confirmed case is outside Durham County, it’s a wake-up call for Triangle residents. Measles is highly contagious – spreading through the air and on surfaces – and outbreaks can escalate quickly in undervaccinated communities.

“Getting vaccinated against measles continues to be the most important step we can take to protect ourselves and our loved ones,” said NCDHHS Secretary Dr. Dev Sangvai.

To learn more about measles symptoms, prevention, or to find vaccination sites, visit ncdhhs.gov/measles.

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