DPH Confirms Additional Measles Case
Unvaccinated Family Member of Previous Case
Georgia DPH has confirmed the state’s fifth case of measles this year. The metro Atlanta resident is a family member of a person with measles, acquired outside the country, who was confirmed in May. Both were unvaccinated.
Individuals who may have been exposed to either of these persons have been given the MMR (measles, mumps, rubella) vaccine or antibodies to help reduce the risk of developing measles and are being monitored for symptoms.
As of June 5, 34 states have reported a total of 1,168 confirmed measles cases so far in 2025. Of those, 137 have been hospitalized. Three unvaccinated individuals—two school-aged children in Texas and an adult in New Mexico—have died.
Measles is a highly contagious virus that can spread up to two hours after a person with measles leaves a room. People can be exposed to the virus in a supermarket, airport, or hotel lobby. Nine of 10 people exposed will get measles if they are not vaccinated.
Cases are transmissible for up to four days before infected people get a rash, a common symptom. Other symptoms include a high fever, cough, runny nose, or red, watery eyes. Measles can be severe at any age and can lead to serious complications, such as pneumonia (infection of the lungs), encephalitis (swelling of the brain), and death.
The MMR vaccine is safe and effective. The CDC recommends children receive their first dose of MMR vaccine between 12 and 15 months of age and a second dose between 4 and 6 years of age. 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%.
Additional information:
Georgia Department of Public Health
MEDIA CONTACT: Natalie Shelton
natalie.shelton@dph.ga.gov or (706) 302-6707