Measles Exposure Alert Issued for Gaston County, North Carolina Following Confirmed Case
A potential measles exposure has been identified in Gaston County, North Carolina, prompting health officials to urge vigilance and vaccination. The North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services (NCDHHS) and Gaston County Public Health confirmed a case involving an individual who traveled through the area while infectious, raising concerns about possible community spread.
Potential Exposure Locations and Dates
Individuals who visited Constantine’s Restaurant at 1825 S. New Hope Rd. in Gastonia after 8:30 p.m. on December 26, 2025, may have been exposed to the virus. Public health authorities advise anyone who was present during that timeframe to monitor for symptoms through January 16, 2026.
The individual also attended Christmas Town USA in McAdenville between 5:30 p.m. and 8:00 p.m. on December 26, 2025. However, officials indicated the risk of transmission at Christmas Town USA is considered low, as the individual did not enter any indoor venues.
Symptoms and Recommended Actions
Those who develop symptoms of measles should immediately contact their local health department and remain at home, except to seek medical care. Health officials strongly recommend calling ahead to any doctor’s office or emergency room to allow for precautions to prevent further exposure.
Rising Measles Cases Nationwide
This case arrives amid a concerning national trend. As of December 30, 2025, the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has reported 2,065 confirmed measles cases across 44 states – the highest number recorded since the widespread adoption of the two-dose MMR vaccine in the early 1990s. One measles case was previously identified in a North Carolina resident in 2025.
Vaccination Remains Key Protection
Public health officials are emphasizing the importance of vaccination as the most effective defense against measles. They recommend that all unvaccinated individuals aged one year and older receive the measles vaccine. The vaccine is also advised for infants between 6 and 11 months of age who are planning international travel or travel to areas experiencing active measles outbreaks.
Individuals unsure of their immunity status can utilize the NCDHHS measles immunity checker tool.
Privacy Considerations
To protect the individual’s privacy, health officials have stated that no further details regarding the case will be released.
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