Georgia confirms first measles case in nearly four years. Here’s what we know
A case of measles has been reported in Georgia for the first time since 2020, the state’s Department of Public Health announced Thursday, Jan. 18.
Officials confirmed in a news release that an unvaccinated resident was exposed to the virus while traveling internationally.
The case was reported in metro Atlanta, though the department didn’t specify where.
“DPH is working to identify anyone who may have had contact with the individual while they were infectious,” officials said.
Measles is highly contagious and can be especially dangerous for babies and young kids, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. The virus is spread through the air when someone infected sneezes or coughs, experts say.
Measles can linger in the air or on surfaces for up to two hours, even after an infected person has left the room, the CDC said.
Symptoms can appear 7 to 14 days after exposure and include:
- High fever
- Cough
- Runny nose
- Red, watery eyes
Those infected with measles may also develop a rash of “flat red spots” that start near the head and spread downward to the rest of the body, according to the CDC.
Public health officials said the MMR, or measles, mumps and rubella, vaccine helps protect against the virus.
“More than 95% of the people who receive a single dose of MMR will develop immunity to all three viruses,” the Georgia DPH said. “A second dose boosts immunity, typically enhancing protection to 98%.”
This story was originally published January 18, 2024 at 1:27 PM with the headline "Georgia confirms first measles case in nearly four years. Here’s what we know."