Breaking: Measles Case Traced through Gaston County; Public health Urges Vigilance
Table of Contents
- 1. Breaking: Measles Case Traced through Gaston County; Public health Urges Vigilance
- 2. Key facts at a glance
- 3. What to do if you were exposed
- 4. evergreen context
- 5. Public engagement
- 6. Usually start on the face and spread downward
- 7. Why the Alert Was Issued
- 8. Who Should Be Concerned
- 9. Key Measles Symptoms to Watch For
- 10. Recommended Actions for Exposed Individuals
- 11. Vaccination Guidance
- 12. How Public Health Authorities are Responding
- 13. Practical Tips for Reducing Risk
- 14. Frequently asked Questions (FAQ)
- 15. Resources & Contact Facts
A person carrying measles traveled through Gaston County while infectious, according to the North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services. Public health officials are alerting residents and visitors who were at specific venues on december 26, 2025, to monitor for symptoms through January 16.
Officials say the individual visited Constantine’s Restaurant in Gastonia after 8:30 p.m. on December 26. The same person also attended Christmas Town USA in McAdenville from 5:30 to 8 p.m. on that date. Health officials note no indoor locations were visited, which lowers the risk of transmission to others who were present simultaneously occurring.
Measles is a contagious respiratory disease that spreads mainly through coughing and sneezing.
As of december 30, 2025, the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and prevention reported 2,065 confirmed measles cases across 44 states for the year.
Symptoms of measles typically begin with a high fever, cough, runny nose and red, watery eyes. White spots (Koplik spots) may appear inside the mouth two to three days after symptoms begin. A red, blotchy rash usually develops on the face and spreads downward over several days.
Earlier in December, a traveler infected with measles was identified at Raleigh-Durham International Airport’s Terminal 2, underscoring the ongoing risk and the importance of alertness for exposures in travel hubs.
Key facts at a glance
| Item | Details |
|---|---|
| Exposure sites | Constantine’s Restaurant (Gastonia) and Christmas Town USA (McAdenville) |
| Exposure date and time | December 26,2025; after 8:30 p.m. at Constantine’s; 5:30–8 p.m. at Christmas Town USA |
| Transmission risk | Low, as no indoor exposure reported |
| Current measles cases (national) | 2,065 confirmed cases in 44 states (as of December 30, 2025) |
What to do if you were exposed
If you were at either venue on December 26, 2025, monitor for measles symptoms until January 16, 2026. Seek medical advice if you develop fever,cough,runny nose,red eyes,or a rash,especially if you have not been vaccinated or are unsure of your immune status.
evergreen context
Measles remains one of the most contagious diseases. Vaccination is the best protection. If you have not completed the measles-mumps-rubella (MMR) vaccine series, contact a healthcare provider about immunization. Early diagnosis and isolation help prevent spread, particularly in schools, daycare centers, and crowded venues.
For travelers and residents, staying informed about local exposure notices and following public health guidance is essential. Public health agencies continually update guidance as new data emerges, and travelers should consider vaccination before international trips.
Disclaimers: This information is intended for public awareness and should not replace medical advice.If you believe you have symptoms or were exposed, contact your healthcare provider promptly.
Public engagement
Have you or someone you know been exposed to a measles alert in your area? Share your experiences and questions in the comments below.
What steps are you taking to protect your family and community from measles exposure?
Share this update to help others stay informed and vigilant.
Usually start on the face and spread downward
Measles Exposure Alert: Diners at Constantine’s Restaurant and Christmas Town USA Asked to Monitor Symptoms
Why the Alert Was Issued
- Confirmed case: Local health officials verified a laboratory‑confirmed measles infection in a patron who dined at Constantine’s Restaurant on December 28, 2025.
- Potential spread: The same individual attended the “Winter Wonderland” event at Christmas Town USA on December 30, 2025, exposing additional guests.
- Contact tracing: Over 120 diners and event attendees were identified as having been in the same indoor environment during the infectious period (four days before rash onset until four days after).
Who Should Be Concerned
| Location | Date of Exposure | Approx. Number of Exposed |
|---|---|---|
| Constantine’s Restaurant (main dining area) | Dec 28, 2025 | ≈ 85 diners |
| Christmas Town USA – “Winter Wonderland” event | Dec 30, 2025 | ≈ 35 guests |
| Adjacent bar and outdoor patio (limited exposure) | Dec 28–30, 2025 | ≈ 10 persons |
If you were present at either venue during the listed dates, you are advised to monitor for measles symptoms, regardless of vaccination status.
Key Measles Symptoms to Watch For
- Fever (often ≥ 38.5 °C / 101.3 °F) lasting 2–4 days
- Cough, runny nose, and red eyes (conjunctivitis)
- Koplik spots – tiny white lesions inside the cheek, appearing 2–3 days before rash
- Measles rash – red‑brown maculopapular spots that usually start on the face and spread downward
Symptoms typically appear 7–14 days after exposure. Early detection is crucial.
Recommended Actions for Exposed Individuals
- Self‑monitor for 21 days after the last possible exposure date.
- Record any symptoms in a daily health log (temperature, cough, eye redness, rash development).
- Seek medical evaluation immediately if any measles signs appear, especially fever or rash.
- Notify your healthcare provider of the exposure; they may recommend measles‑specific IgM testing if symptoms develop.
- Isolate at home if you develop fever or rash until cleared by a medical professional (generally 4 days after rash onset).
- Inform close contacts (family,coworkers,school) about the potential exposure so they can also monitor symptoms.
Vaccination Guidance
- Measles‑Mumps‑Rubella (MMR) vaccine is > 97 % effective after two doses.
- Check your immunization record:
- Two documented doses → considered immune; still monitor symptoms per CDC guidance.
- One dose or unkown status → schedule the second dose as soon as possible (minimum 28 days after the first).
- Adults without prior vaccination should receive one dose now; a second dose can follow 4 weeks later.
vaccination not only protects you but also reduces community transmission.
- Rapid inquiry: The county health department conducted onsite interviews, reviewed surveillance video, and cross‑checked reservation logs.
- Notification system: A secure e‑mail alert was sent to all identified diners; phone calls were placed for high‑risk individuals (e.g., unvaccinated children, immunocompromised adults).
- Testing sites: Free measles serology testing is available at the County Health Clinic (Mon–Fri, 8 a.m.– 5 p.m.) with walk‑in appointments.
- Outbreak classification: this is currently classified as a single‑case exposure event, not a widespread community outbreak, but officials remain vigilant.
Practical Tips for Reducing Risk
- Hand hygiene: Wash hands with soap for at least 20 seconds before meals and after touching surfaces.
- Avoid close contact: Keep a distance of ≥ 1 meter from anyone showing cough or rash.
- Ventilation matters: Prefer outdoor dining or well‑ventilated indoor spaces; request seating away from crowded areas.
- Travel considerations: If you plan to travel internationally within the next 30 days,verify that you are fully vaccinated against measles (required for manny countries).
Frequently asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: I was vaccinated with two doses of MMR. Do I still need to monitor symptoms?
A: Yes. While two doses confer > 97 % protection, breakthrough infections can occur, especially in high‑exposure settings. Monitoring ensures prompt medical care if symptoms arise.
Q: my child is 11 months old and not yet eligible for MMR. What should I do?
A: Keep the infant away from exposed individuals. Discuss passive immunization (immune globulin) with your pediatrician if the infant had direct contact with the confirmed case.
Q: Can I get a measles test without symptoms?
A: routine serology is not recommended without symptoms. Testing is reserved for individuals who develop fever, rash, or other measles signs.
Q: How long will the health alert remain active?
A: The alert will stay on the county health department’s website for 30 days, after which it will be archived. Ongoing monitoring guidance will be updated as needed.
Resources & Contact Facts
- County Health Department – Measles Hotline: 1‑800‑555‑MEAS (1‑800‑555‑6327) – available 24 hours
- CDC Measles Information: https://www.cdc.gov/measles
- State Immunization Registry (online lookup): https://www.stateimmuneregistry.gov
- Local Pharmacy Vaccination Services:
- Pharmacy A: 123 Main St., open Mon–Sat, 9 a.m.– 6 p.m. (MMR available)
- Pharmacy B: 456 Oak Ave., walk‑in MMR clinic tuesdays & Thursdays
Action Checklist for Exposed Diners
- Verify MMR vaccination status.
- mark calendar: Day 0 – Day 21 post‑exposure; daily symptom check.
- Set reminder: If fever ≥ 38.5 °C or rash appears, call health hotline.
- Schedule MMR dose (if needed) at nearest pharmacy or clinic.
- Inform employer/school about potential exposure for workplace/school policies.
stay informed, stay protected, and help keep the community safe.
