First 2025 Georgia measles case reported in metro Atlanta

ATLANTA, Ga. (Atlanta News First) – The first 2025 Georgia measles case has been reported in metro Atlanta, according to the Georgia Department of Health.

The measles case involves an unvaccinated metro Atlanta resident and they are believed to have contracted the virus within the U.S., the health department said.

The health department also said it is working to ” identify any persons that may have been exposed through contact with the individual between Jan. 19-24, 2025 when they were infectious.”

The Georgia Department of Public Health did not specify where in metro Atlanta the measles case came out of.

How does measles spread?

Measles, a very contagious virus, spreads through the air when someone who has it coughs or sneezes, the Georgia health department said. The disease can stay in the air or on surfaces for at least two hours after the infected person leaves.

What are the symptoms of measles?

Symptoms can include high fever, cough, runny nose and watery eyes. A rash of tiny, red sports will also break out. The rash starts at the head and then spreads to the rest of the body.

Measles symptoms start to show up seven to 14 days after coming in contact with the virus.

When can people get the measles vaccine?

The MMR vaccine can prevent measles, mumps, and rubella.

The Georgia Department of Public Health said the vaccine is safe and effective.

The CDC recommends children get their first dose of the MMR vaccine between 12-15 months and a second dose between 4-6 years old.

“More than 95% of the people who receive a single dose of MMR will develop immunity to all three viruses. A second dose boosts immunity, typically enhancing protection to 98%,” the health department said in a press release.

If you have measles symptoms what should you do?

The health department said people with measles symptoms should contact their healthcare provider immediately. They shouldn’t go to a doctor’s office, hospital, or a public health clinic without first calling to let them know about their symptoms, the health department said.

In 2024, there were six reported cases of measles in Georgia, according to the health department.

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