Measles Exposure Alert in Wake County, Health Officials Ask People to Check Shots

Health officials in Wake County, North Carolina, are warning people about possible measles exposure. This happened in stores and the airport. They say getting the measles shot is the best way to protect yourself and others. If you think you were exposed, call your doctor first.
By Newsroom | Health, Wake County |

A recent series of measles exposures in Wake County, North Carolina, has triggered public health alerts and underscored the importance of vaccination. Several locations, including businesses in Raleigh and a section of the Raleigh-Durham International Airport, were visited by individuals confirmed to have measles while they were contagious. Health officials are reaching out to potentially exposed individuals and reiterating that measles is highly contagious but preventable through vaccination.

Wake County Measles Outbreak: First Signs, Risk Factors, Places to Avoid as Authorities Flag Several Areas - 1

Measles Detected Across Wake County and Neighboring Areas

Wake County Public Health confirmed that an infected individual visited multiple businesses in Raleigh on specific dates, leading to potential exposures for the public. Similar alerts have been issued by Durham County and Johnston County health departments regarding exposures to measles within their jurisdictions.

Wake County Measles Outbreak: First Signs, Risk Factors, Places to Avoid as Authorities Flag Several Areas - 2

  • The Wake County exposure involved a person visiting five locations in Raleigh on February 2025.

  • This individual was reportedly visiting from out of state.

  • A confirmed measles case was also reported in Johnston County, with an individual visiting the UNC Health Johnston emergency room on a specific Saturday.

  • Durham County Public Health also announced a confirmed case involving a non-resident who visited three locations within the county on a specific Friday.

Public Health Response and Vaccination Push

Authorities are actively working to identify and notify individuals who may have been exposed to the measles virus. The primary recommendation from health officials is to ensure up-to-date vaccination against measles.

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Wake County Measles Outbreak: First Signs, Risk Factors, Places to Avoid as Authorities Flag Several Areas - 3

  • Wake County Public Health Director Rebecca Kaufman emphasized that measles spreads easily but is preventable.

  • Residents experiencing measles symptoms are advised to call healthcare providers or emergency departments ahead of arrival to prevent further transmission.

  • North Carolina requires measles vaccination for children attending school and childcare, though exemptions are permissible under certain conditions.

  • For infants aged 6-11 months traveling internationally or to areas with active measles outbreaks, the measles vaccine is also recommended.

Understanding Measles Transmission and Symptoms

Measles is a serious respiratory illness caused by a virus. It is known for its high transmissibility and can spread through direct contact with an infected person's nose or mouth secretions, as well as through the air.

Wake County Measles Outbreak: First Signs, Risk Factors, Places to Avoid as Authorities Flag Several Areas - 4

  • The virus can remain active in the air for up to two hours after an infected person has left an indoor space.

  • Symptoms typically appear within one to two weeks of exposure.

  • Public health departments are providing resources, such as a measles immunity checker tool, to help individuals assess their vaccination status and potential need for further protection.

Geographic Spread and National Context

The exposures in Wake County occur within a broader context of rising measles cases nationally. While North Carolina has reported areas with measles-free status, neighboring states have seen more significant case numbers, contributing to a heightened awareness and precautionary measures.

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  • South Carolina reported a notable number of measles cases as of a specific date in December 2025.

  • Wake County health officials are recommending residents remain current with their vaccinations to mitigate risk.

  • The measles vaccine is considered highly effective in preventing the disease.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Where did the measles exposure happen in Wake County?
Measles exposure happened at several stores in Raleigh and at the Raleigh-Durham International Airport.
Q: What should I do if I think I was exposed?
If you think you were exposed, call your doctor or the emergency room before you go. This helps stop the sickness from spreading.
Q: Is measles dangerous?
Yes, measles is a serious sickness that spreads very easily. It can cause bad health problems.
Q: How can I protect myself from measles?
The best way to protect yourself is to get the measles vaccine. It is very safe and works well to stop you from getting sick.