What to Do If You Were Exposed to Measles

Measles spreads very easily. If you think you might have been exposed to measles, or if you received a text notification from us, follow the steps below.

Text messages will come from 1-984-400-0729. (More about text notification.)

Steps to Take

  • 1

    Check the Exposure Locations

    Review the list of locations and dates where measles exposure may have occurred. If you were there during the listed time, you may have been exposed. 

    Measles exposure happens if:

    • You share indoor space with someone who has measles and can spread it, or
    • You go into an indoor space within two hours after a person with measles leaves.

    People with measles can spread it to others from four days before through four days after the rash appears.

    Measles Exposure Locations

  • 2

    Check Your Immunity

    Find your vaccination records or other proof of immunity.

    Check Your Immunity to Measles

    You are unlikely to get measles if you:

    • Received the MMR vaccine (measles, mumps, rubella), or
    • Have other evidence of immunity

    If you are not sure, a health care provider or your local health department can help.

    Tips for Locating Your Vaccine Records

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    • Monitor for measles symptoms for 21 days after exposure
    • If symptoms develop, stay home and call a health care provider

    • Call your health care provider or your local health department as soon as possible
    • Call before going in and tell them you may have been exposed to measles

    Your provider may recommend:

    You should also:

    • Stay home for 21 days after exposure
    • Monitor for symptoms
  • 3

    Know the Symptoms and When to Seek Care

    Symptoms usually begin 7-14 days after exposure but can take as long as 21 days to appear. Common symptoms include:

    • Fever
    • Cough
    • Runny nose
    • Red, watery eyes
    • Rash (often starts on the face and spreads)

    More details: Measles Symptoms / How It Spreads

    When to Seek Emergency Care

What to Expect During Public Health Outreach

You may hear from NCDHHS or your local health department. We may contact you to:

  • Check on your health
  • Talk through next steps
  • Help prevent the spread of measles

We may send text messages to share information about possible measles exposure. Messages will come from 1-984-400-0729.

What to know about public health outreach for communicable diseases

If you think this is an error, have questions or need support related to measles, call the NC Public Health Outreach Team at 1-844-628-7223 or your local health department. The NC Public Health Outreach Team or your local health department may also contact you. Please answer the call!

We’re here if you need us.  

To talk to someone on the phone, call your local health department or the NC Public Health Outreach Team at 1-844-628-7223.