Georgia confirms 4th measles case. How can you prevent infection?
On May 19, the Georgia Department of Public Health announced the state’s fourth confirmed measles case of 2025. In a recent CDC notice, it was revealed that most reported cases are being contracted as a result of international travel, contributing to the unusually high national case number of over 1,100.
While Georgia’s four cases may not seem to be a lot, the possibility of outbreaks has drastically increased due to nationwide spikes. The largest spike has been in Texas, with a jump from having 285 cases in 2024 to over 700 this year alone, and two deaths.
While the residents who were infected were found in the metro and greater Atlanta areas, caution should be taken in areas where people are experiencing symptoms of the viral disease. Wearing a mask or keeping your distance from those with symptoms can prevent you from contracting it.
What should you do if you experience symptoms?
While your first thought may be to go to the doctor or hospital, there is a safe and correct way to contact help when experiencing symptoms of measles (cough, fever, rash, etc.).
Step 1: Call your doctor or the nearest emergency facility to inform them about your symptoms.
If given special instructions for exposure control upon arrival by a healthcare professional, follow all procedures given. Isolating four days after any rashes appear is usually standard procedure, but check with your medical provider on what is necessary for your situation.
Step 2: If diagnosed by a healthcare professional, inform the department of public health of all infected or exposed individuals since the moment of virus contraction.
To get proper testing for measles, contact the nearest health department location and schedule an appointment. Postpone all domestic or international travel until you get confirmation.
Step 3: Ensure that the infected individual and anyone who was exposed are vaccinated and tested for the disease.
While all previous cases in Georgia being found in unvaccinated individuals, getting the MMR vaccine within 72 hours of initial exposure may provide some protection from worsening symptoms. Vaccinating children under the age of 5 may also be a priority because they are most vulnerable to fatalities from the disease. Children may receive the MMR or MMRV vaccine as early as 6 to 11 months old.
How do you treat or care for measles symptoms?
While there is no cure for the measles disease, there are a few treatments to help ease the symptoms and complications. Nothing listed prevents measles or is a vaccine substitute.
Vitamin A supplements (ask your healthcare provider)
Hydration (water, broths, drinks with minerals, etc.)
Over-the-counter or prescription antibiotics (in the case of bacterial infections as a result of the virus)
MMR or MMRV vaccination