The North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services (NCDHHS) has confirmed a measles case in a child who visited Forsyth and Guilford counties. The child became ill while traveling to North Carolina from another country experiencing measles outbreaks. To protect privacy, no further details about the individual will be disclosed. This marks the first confirmed measles case in North Carolina for 2025.
NCDHHS advises all unvaccinated individuals aged one year and older to receive the measles vaccination. They are collaborating with local health departments to identify potential exposure sites.
Individuals who may have been exposed should review their immunization records or consult their healthcare provider regarding the measles-mumps-rubella (MMR) vaccine. Laboratory testing is not advised unless symptoms such as fever and rash develop within seven to 21 days after exposure. In such cases, individuals are urged to call ahead before visiting medical facilities.
Post-exposure prophylaxis (PEP) may be available for those at higher risk, including infants too young for MMR vaccination, immunocompromised individuals, or pregnant women. “Getting vaccinated against measles continues to be the most important step we can take to protect ourselves and our loved ones,” stated NC Health and Human Services Secretary Dev Sangvai.
Residents can contact healthcare providers or local health departments for vaccine information and appointments. Children eligible for the Vaccines for Children program may receive vaccines through enrolled providers.
To address this case, NCDHHS State Epidemiologist Zack Moore, along with partners from Forsyth and Guilford counties, will hold a virtual media availability on June 24 at 4:30 p.m.
Measles is highly contagious and preventable by vaccine. It spreads through direct contact or air transmission where an infected person was present up to two hours prior. Symptoms typically appear 7-14 days post-exposure but can take up to 21 days.
With community spread risks, parents are encouraged to ensure children’s vaccinations are current. Approximately 90% of unvaccinated individuals exposed will contract measles; about one in five infected require hospitalization. Besides North Carolina’s case, there have been 1,214 reported cases across 36 jurisdictions in 2025 as of June 19.
