This month, Atlanta, Georgia, has confirmed its first case of measles, marking a significant development in the ongoing battle against vaccine-preventable diseases in the United States. This news has many parents and healthcare providers concerned, as measles, though largely controlled through vaccination, is seeing an uptick in certain areas. In this article, we’ll take a look at the measles case confirmed in Atlanta, compare it to last year and years prior, explain what measles is, and discuss the potential effects on both children and adults. We’ll also examine why the disease is on the rise in the U.S. and provide guidance on what to do if your child is exposed.
The Measles Case in Atlanta
As of this month, Atlanta has reported its first confirmed case of measles in 2025. This comes on the heels of a concerning rise in measles cases across the U.S. in recent years. In 2024, Georgia saw a notable number of measles cases, with Atlanta and other urban areas being especially vulnerable due to high population density and international travel. While measles outbreaks have been relatively rare in the past decade due to high vaccination rates, this recent case is a reminder that the disease remains a serious threat, especially when vaccination rates dip.
Comparing Measles Cases: 2024 vs. 2025 and Beyond
Measles cases in the U.S. have fluctuated over the past few years. In 2024, the U.S. saw a sharp increase in measles cases, with nearly 200 confirmed cases nationwide by mid-year, compared to just 50 in 2023. This uptick has raised alarm bells for public health experts, who are concerned about the potential for larger outbreaks in 2025 and beyond if vaccination rates continue to decline.
In Georgia, 2024 saw a noticeable rise in cases, with a few large clusters linked to unvaccinated communities. While 2025’s case in Atlanta is the first of the year, public health officials are closely monitoring the situation, knowing that measles is highly contagious and can spread rapidly in areas where people are unvaccinated.
What Is Measles?
Measles is a highly contagious viral infection that primarily affects children, though adults can also contract it. It is spread through respiratory droplets when an infected person coughs or sneezes. Symptoms typically begin with a high fever, cough, runny nose, and red eyes, followed by a characteristic rash that starts on the face and spreads to the rest of the body. The rash often appears 3-5 days after the first symptoms.
Measles can lead to severe complications, especially in children under 5 and adults over 20. Complications include pneumonia, encephalitis (inflammation of the brain), and even death in some cases. While the vast majority of cases resolve with proper care, measles is a disease that can cause long-term health issues, and it can spread quickly in communities with low vaccination rates.
The Effects of Measles on Children and Adults
In Children
Children are particularly vulnerable to measles, and the disease can have more severe consequences for them. Complications such as ear infections, diarrhea, and pneumonia are common. In some cases, children may experience long-term neurological effects, including encephalitis, which can result in brain damage or death. Infants who are too young to be vaccinated, or children who have not received the full MMR (measles, mumps, rubella) vaccine series, are especially at risk.
In Adults
While measles is often associated with children, adults are not immune to its effects. Adults who have not been vaccinated or who have weakened immune systems may experience more severe symptoms. Complications such as pneumonia and encephalitis can be particularly dangerous for adults, especially those who are pregnant, immunocompromised, or older than 20.
What to Do If Your Child Is Exposed to Measles
If your child has been exposed to someone with measles, it’s important to act quickly:
- Contact Your Pediatrician: If you suspect your child may have been exposed to measles, contact your pediatrician immediately. Your doctor can help assess the situation and may recommend a dose of the MMR vaccine if your child has not yet received it, as this can provide protection if given within 72 hours of exposure.
- Watch for Symptoms: The symptoms of measles can develop anywhere from 7 to 21 days after exposure. Keep an eye out for fever, cough, runny nose, red eyes, and a rash. If these symptoms appear, it’s important to keep your child home to prevent further spread.
- Stay Informed: Public health officials will often release updates if measles is circulating in a particular area. Stay informed about outbreaks in your community, especially if you are in a high-risk area, and follow any guidance provided by local health authorities.
- Vaccinate Your Child: The best way to protect your child from measles is through vaccination. The MMR vaccine is safe and highly effective, with two doses typically given in early childhood. The first dose is given at 1 year of age, with a second dose between ages 4 and 6. If your child is not vaccinated, talk to your pediatrician about getting them caught up.
The confirmation of a measles case in Atlanta this month highlights the ongoing threat that vaccine-preventable diseases pose to public health. While measles was once thought to be eradicated in the U.S., its resurgence serves as a stark reminder of the importance of vaccination. Parents can protect their children—and their communities—by ensuring their children receive the MMR vaccine on schedule. If you are unsure about your child’s vaccination status or if they’ve been exposed to measles, don’t hesitate to contact your healthcare provider. With vigilance and commitment to vaccination, we can work together to prevent the spread of measles and other dangerous diseases.