Randolph County Public Health has confirmed a measles case linked to a recent visit to Tot Hill Farm Golf Club — residents who were at the pro shop last Thursday morning should monitor for symptoms.
ASHEBORO N.C. (ACME NEWS) — Randolph County Public Health officials announced Wednesday that a confirmed measles case has been traced to a traveler who passed through the county while infectious.
Officials are asking anyone who visited the pro shop between 8 a.m. and noon on March 12 — and who has not received the MMR (measles, mumps and rubella) vaccine — to contact the health department immediately to have their risk assessed. Those who have been fully vaccinated are not advised to call unless they develop symptoms.
336-318-6885 — ask to speak with a communicable disease nurse.
Measles is one of the most contagious diseases known to medicine. It spreads through direct contact and through the air, and the virus can linger in the air or on surfaces for up to two hours after an infected person has left the area. Symptoms typically emerge seven to fourteen days after exposure, though they can appear as late as 21 days after contact.
Measles can also lead to serious complications, including diarrhea, pneumonia, encephalitis (swelling of the brain), and suppression of the immune system. Children under five and adults over 20 are at greatest risk of severe outcomes.
Health officials are stressing a critical precaution: do not show up unannounced to a doctor’s office or emergency room if you develop symptoms. Call ahead first so that staff can take precautions to prevent the virus from spreading to other patients in the waiting area.
Laboratory testing is not recommended for those who were exposed but remain symptom-free. Testing should only be sought if symptoms — particularly fever accompanied by rash — develop.
The MMR vaccine, which is safe and highly effective, provides the strongest defense against measles. Two doses offer the best protection. Randolph County Public Health is encouraging any unvaccinated residents to speak with a healthcare provider about getting immunized as soon as possible.
Authorities are not releasing any identifying information about the individual to protect their privacy.
- High fever — may spike above 104°F
- Cough and runny nose
- Red, watery eyes (conjunctivitis)
- Tiny white spots on the inner cheeks, gums, or roof of the mouth (Koplik Spots), appearing two to three days after onset
- A red, raised, blotchy rash — typically beginning on the face and spreading to the trunk, arms and legs three to five days after symptoms begin
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