| Laboratory testing is not recommended for people who were exposed unless they develop symptoms of measles, including fever and rash. Symptoms of measles can start seven to 21 days after being exposed. If symptoms develop, please limit exposure to other people and call ahead before visiting the doctor or emergency room so steps can be taken to prevent exposure to others.
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. Children eligible for the Vaccines for Children program may receive the vaccine from a provider enrolled in that program. The NCDHHS measles immunity checker tool is also available for those who are unsure whether they might need additional protection. For more information about measles, please visit dph.ncdhhs.gov/measles.
“Getting vaccinated against measles continues to be the most important step we can take to protect ourselves and our loved ones,” said Dr. Zack Moore, NCDHHS State Epidemiologist. “It is important to check with your health care provider to ensure you are current with all your vaccines.”
Measles is a highly contagious, vaccine-preventable disease that is spread by direct person-to-person contact and through the air. The virus can live for up to two hours in the air where the infected person was present. Symptoms of measles usually begin 7-14 days after exposure, but can appear up to 21 days after exposure and may include:
- High fever (may spike to more than 104 degrees)
- Cough
- Runny nose
- Red, watery eyes (conjunctivitis)
- Tiny white spots on the inner cheeks, gums and roof of the mouth (Koplik Spots) two to three days after symptoms begin
- A rash that is red, raised, blotchy; usually starts on face, spreads to trunk, arms and legs three to five days after symptoms begin
With the risk for community spread, parents are encouraged to make sure their children are up to date on all their childhood immunizations, including the measles vaccine. 90% percent of unvaccinated individuals who are exposed to measles will become infected.
As of Dec. 30, 2025, the CDC reported 2,065 confirmed measles cases in the United States for the year in 44 states, with 24 cases involving international travelers. In addition, the CDC reported 49 outbreaks in 2025, with 88 percent of confirmed cases (1,820 of 2,065) associated with an outbreak. Eleven percent of cases required hospitalizations, and three resulted in death. |
