Measles Exposure at Raleigh Durham Airport, Health Officials Urge Vaccination

North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services and Wake County Public Health announced a confirmed case of measles in a person who passed through Terminal 2 at Raleigh Durham International Airport while infectious. The individual was a resident of another state who arrived at the terminal the morning of December 10. Anyone who was in Terminal 2 between 4:00 a.m. and 8:00 a.m. on Wednesday December 10 could have been exposed and should monitor for symptoms through January 1, 2026.

Public health officials directed unvaccinated people age 1 and older to receive the measles mumps and rubella vaccine. Infants aged 6 to 11 months were advised to receive the vaccine if they are traveling internationally or to areas with active outbreaks. Passengers on flights that included the infected person are being contacted directly by local health departments as part of exposure follow up.

State Epidemiologist Zack Moore emphasized that measles is highly contagious and that vaccination remains the best way to prevent spread. The notice also pointed to a broader national trend, with the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reporting a significant number of measles cases nationally in 2025. Local health officials reminded residents to contact their health departments with questions or if symptoms develop.

The immediate local impact is greatest for travelers who were at RDU during the specified timeframe, for airport workers who may have had extended contact, and for families with infants or unvaccinated members. Measles can spread quickly in crowded settings, so verifying your vaccination status is important. If you were in Terminal 2 during the exposure window or believe you were on a flight with the infected person monitor for signs and contact your health department without delay.

Wake County residents who are unsure about their vaccine history or who need to arrange vaccination should contact Wake County Public Health. Health officials say timely vaccination not only protects individuals, but also helps prevent outbreaks that could affect schools childcare centers and other community settings.