Measles case confirmed in Shelby County, first in 2025

MEMPHIS, Tenn. (WMC) – The first case of measles has been confirmed in Shelby County by the Tennessee Department of Health.

A resident in Shelby County is confirmed to be recovering at home from the measles diagnosis.

Public health officials are working to identify any people who may have been exposed to the virus.

The first case in the state of Tennessee was announced on March 21.

Right now, the risk is low, according to Michelle Taylor, the Director of the Shelby County Health Department.

“That’s because Tennessee enjoys a fairly high vaccination rate against Measles, Mumps, and Rubella. Mainly because it is required for school entry,” she said.

The virus is airborne and can spread quickly.

Dr. Taylor said vaccination is important to stand against the virus.

“Right now, the risk to most in Shelby County may be considered low,” she said. “But with that said, like I was saying before, it’s very important that even our adults understand their immune status.”

According to the Tennessee Department of Health, the state confirmed its first case in 2024 since 2019.

Shelby County saw no cases in 2024 or 2023 according to SCHD.

Friday, a hotline will go live at the Shelby County Health Department for people wanting to know more information about measles in Shelby County and how they can protect themselves.

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