The Georgia Department of Public Health (DPH) has reported a case of measles involving an unvaccinated person in metro Atlanta. This individual contracted the virus while traveling in the U. S. and was contagious between January 19 and January 24, 2025.

The Georgia DPH is actively trying to find anyone who might have been exposed during this time. Measles is very contagious and can spread through the air when an infected person coughs or sneezes. The virus can remain in the air or on surfaces for up to two hours after the infected person leaves, raising the risk of spreading.

Symptoms of measles typically start 7 to 14 days after exposure and include high fever, cough, runny nose, and watery eyes, followed by a rash of small, red spots that begins on the head and spreads. Experts stress that vaccination is essential to prevent measles. The MMR vaccine is safe and effective, with the CDC recommending children get their first dose at 12 to 15 months and a second dose at 4 to 6 years old. DPH urges anyone with measles symptoms to contact their healthcare provider right away and not visit clinics without letting them know first. Healthcare professionals are required to report suspected cases of measles immediately.

This is the first measles case reported in Georgia for 2025, following six cases in 2024. For more information on measles and vaccinations, visit the Georgia Department of Public Health or CDC websites.

Residents are encouraged to stay informed and keep their vaccinations current to protect themselves and their communities.