Health officials in Moore County are warning the public about a possible measles exposure after an infected traveler visited a local business while contagious.
The Moore County Health Department said an out-of-state visitor confirmed to have measles was at the Legacy Golf Course Pro Shop, located at 12615 U.S. Highway 15-501 in Aberdeen, on March 11 between 7 a.m. and noon. Anyone who was at the pro shop during that time may have been exposed.
Measles is a highly contagious respiratory disease that spreads through the air when an infected person coughs or sneezes. The virus can linger in the air for up to two hours after the person has left the area.
Health officials say there are currently no confirmed measles cases in Moore County, but they are working to identify and notify anyone who may have had direct exposure.
People who were at the pro shop during the identified timeframe are urged to check their vaccination status and monitor for symptoms through April 1, which marks 21 days after the potential exposure.
Symptoms typically begin seven to 14 days after exposure but can take up to three weeks to appear. Early signs include a high fever, cough, runny nose and red, watery eyes. Small white spots inside the mouth, known as Koplik spots, may appear a few days later, followed by a red, blotchy rash that usually starts on the face and spreads downward.
Health officials stress that anyone who develops symptoms should call ahead before seeking medical care. That step helps prevent further exposure to others in waiting rooms or healthcare facilities.
The best protection against measles is the measles, mumps and rubella vaccine. Two doses are about 97 percent effective at preventing infection. The health department encourages anyone age 1 or older who is not vaccinated, or unsure of their immunity, to speak with a healthcare provider.
Anyone with questions or concerns about possible exposure can contact the Moore County Health Department at 910-947-3300 during normal business hours and ask to speak with a communicable disease nurse.
More information, including updates on potential exposure locations across North Carolina, is available through the state’s measles dashboard.
Officials say they will continue to monitor the situation closely and provide updates as needed.
