The North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services (NCDHHS) has confirmed that an out-of-state resident who tested positive for measles traveled through Guilford County on Friday, March 13. The Guilford County Division of Public Health (GCDPH), in coordination with NCDHHS, is notifying the public of a potential exposure and encouraging vaccination for those who are not protected.
The individual visited the following location during the date and time listed:
Location: Wendy’s, 2221 Martin Luther King Jr. Dr., Greensboro
Date/Time of Exposure: Friday, March 13, 5 to 10 p.m.
Anyone who was at this location during this time may have been exposed to measles.
Measles symptoms typically begin seven to 14 days after exposure but can appear up to 21 days later. Individuals who were potentially exposed at this location should monitor for symptoms and contact their healthcare provider or the GCDPH. If you develop symptoms, please call ahead before visiting a doctor’s office, urgent care, emergency department or the GCDPH so healthcare providers can take appropriate precautions to prevent further exposure.
Common symptoms of measles 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
Measles is a highly contagious, vaccine-preventable disease that spreads through the air and by direct contact. The virus can remain in the air for up to two hours after an infected person has left the area. Approximately 90% of unvaccinated individuals exposed to measles will become infected. About one in five people with measles will require hospitalization.
GCDPH strongly recommends that all unvaccinated individuals aged 12 months and older receive the measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR) vaccine to protect themselves and others—especially infants, pregnant individuals, and those with weakened immune systems who may not be able to be vaccinated.
“Getting vaccinated against measles continues to be the most important step we can take to protect ourselves and our families,” said Courtney McFadden, Guilford County Public Health Director. “It is important to ensure you and your family are current with all your vaccines.”
Parents are encouraged to ensure their children are up to date on all recommended immunizations.
Guilford County residents can contact their healthcare provider or GCDPH for more information about measles and vaccination options. Children eligible for the Vaccines for Children (VFC) program (Vaccines for Children) may receive vaccines through participating providers.
To schedule an immunization appointment with GCDPH in Greensboro (1100 E. Wendover Avenue) and High Point (501 E. Green Drive) locations, call 336-641-3245.
For more information about measles, visit the North Carolina Division of Public Health's measles information page.