2 measles cases confirmed in Cabarrus County

Miles Ruder,

KANNAPOLIS, N.C. – The North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services confirmed two positive cases of measles in Cabarrus County.

This brings the total cases identified in North Carolina to nine since December 2025. Officials said these two positive cases are from school-aged siblings that do not attend school in Cabarrus County.

People who visited the Atrium Health Harrisburg Emergency Department, located at 9592 Rocky River Road between 9:20 p.m. and 3:20 a.m. on Wednesday, Jan. 14, may have been exposed.

β€œCabarrus County continues to maintain strong measles vaccination coverage, which is the most effective way of protecting our community,” shared Dr. Megan Easterday, CHA’s Medical Director. β€œFor individuals who are not vaccinated or unsure of their vaccination status, we encourage them to contact their healthcare provider to discuss available options.”

What Is Measles and Why It Matters

Measles (rubeola) is a respiratory illness caused by a virus that spreads easily through coughing, sneezing, or talking. It can also linger in the air or on surfaces for up to two hours where an infected person was present. The disease often begins with symptoms that resemble a cold. Symptoms typically appear 7 to 14 days after exposure and include:

  • High Fever (may spike to more than 104 degrees)
  • Cough
  • Runny nose
  • Red, watery eyes (conjunctivitis)
  • A rash that is red, raised, blotchy; usually starts on the face, spreads to the trunk, arms and legs 3-5 days after symptoms begin

An individual can spread these infectious particles up to 4 days before they develop a rash or before they even know they are sick. Complications from measles can include pneumonia, brain swelling (encephalitis), permanent hearing loss, and death. Children under 5, pregnant individuals, and those with weakened immune systems are especially vulnerable.

If You’ve Been Exposed

If you believe you have been in contact with someone who has measles:

  • Do not visit a healthcare facility without calling ahead. This helps avoid spreading the virus to others.
  • Contact your provider or CHA immediately to assess your immunity and determine next steps.
  • Postexposure prophylaxis (PEP)β€”including the MMR vaccine or immunoglobulinβ€”may be recommended within a limited timeframe after exposure.

Individuals without evidence of immunity may be asked to quarantine for 21 days after the last known exposure.

Vaccination Guidelines

  • Children: First MMR dose at 12–15 months; second dose at 4–6 years
  • Adults:
    • 1 dose if born in 1957 or later and no prior vaccination
    • 2 doses for high-risk adults (e.g., healthcare workers, international travelers, college students)

Vaccines are available through your primary care provider, local pharmacies, and CHA. To schedule an appointment with CHA, please call (704) 920-1399.