Atlanta, Georgia, September 15, 2025
News Summary
Health officials in Atlanta have issued a warning after a resident of Fulton County, who was unvaccinated, contracted measles. This has raised concerns on the Georgia State University campus and the surrounding community. The Georgia Department of Public Health confirmed the case, indicating potential exposure between early September. Vaccination rates have declined in the area, exacerbating the situation and raising alarms among health experts who fear a larger outbreak may occur.
Measles Warning Hits Georgia State University and Fulton County
In Atlanta, Georgia, health officials are raising the alarm after an unvaccinated resident of Fulton County contracted measles. This has led to a public health warning that particularly impacts the Georgia State University (GSU) campus and the surrounding community. The Georgia Department of Public Health (DPH) confirmed the case on a recent Friday, igniting a chain reaction of notifications aimed at informing anyone who may have crossed paths with the infected person.
The individual diagnosed is now past the stage of being infectious but possibly transmitted the virus to others between September 2 and 11. It’s important to note that this case isn’t an isolated one. Earlier this year, Georgia had reported six additional measles cases, contributing to a concerning trend that has seen measles numbers soar to peaks not observed in over three decades across the nation.
Connections to a Wider Outbreak
This surge in cases parallels a tragic measles outbreak in Samoa back in 2019, where misinformation about vaccine safety played a significant role, resulting in over 80 deaths. With the current situation in Georgia, health experts are concerned that similar dynamics could take hold. Fortunately, those who attended outdoor soccer events in relation to GSU have been assessed and deemed to be at low risk of infection.
Vaccination Rates on the Decline
One of the primary issues fueling the rising number of cases is the noticeable decline in childhood vaccination rates. Pediatricians, including Dr. Roy Benaroch, are particularly troubled by these statistics. For the past 12 years, Georgia’s measles vaccination rates for kindergartners have fallen short of the herd immunity levels necessary to protect the wider community. This is alarming as herd immunity is crucial for safeguarding vulnerable groups, including infants under 12 months and individuals with weakened immune systems.
The CDC emphasizes that a single dose of the measles vaccine is 93% effective, while two doses elevate that figure to 97%. This staggering efficacy shows just how important vaccinations are for disease prevention. To combat this current outbreak and proactively inform the public, the DPH is collaborating with local health agencies and organizations, including Inter Atlanta FC and Sweetgreen, to alert those who may have been exposed.
Current Disease Landscape
As of 2025, the United States has already recorded 164 confirmed measles cases and, tragically, one death. Among states, Texas has seen the largest measles outbreak in 30 years, culminating in the first measles-related death in a decade. This nationwide uptick appears to correlate with rising vaccine hesitancy—a trend that has unfortunately grown since the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic. Nearly 5% of Georgia kindergartners have received vaccination exemptions, which further complicates the situation.
Understanding Measles Symptoms
Measles is an incredibly contagious illness, with the potential to spread to 90% of nearby unvaccinated individuals from an infected person. Initial symptoms can sometimes mimic those of a common cold—showing as a high fever, cough, runny nose, and watery eyes—before developing into a distinctive red rash. The DPH advises anyone feeling unwell or who suspects they may have been exposed to seek guidance while avoiding direct visits to healthcare facilities to minimize the risk of spreading the virus.
FAQ Section
What caused the measles outbreak in Fulton County?
An unvaccinated resident contracted measles, triggering health warnings in the community, including Georgia State University.
How contagious is measles?
Measles is highly contagious, capable of spreading to 90% of nearby unvaccinated individuals from an infected person.
What are the symptoms of measles?
Symptoms generally appear 7 to 14 days after exposure and include a high fever, cough, runny nose, watery eyes, and a characteristic red rash.
What should I do if I believe I was exposed to measles?
If you suspect exposure, consult a healthcare provider without visiting in person to prevent further spread of the virus.
Why are vaccination rates declining?
Factors contributing to the decline include vaccine hesitancy and misinformation surrounding vaccine safety, especially regarding a perceived link to autism.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Measles Confirmed in Fulton County, Georgia
Measles Outbreak in Atlanta: Georgia State University Reports Case
Public Health Alert Issued in Atlanta Due to Measles Case
Measles Cases Surge to 30-Year High in Georgia
Top Private K-12 Schools in Atlanta Ranked
Atlanta Public Schools Adjust Start Date for School Year
Atlanta Public Schools Adjusts Academic Calendar and Leadership
Surge in Measles Cases Raises Concerns in Georgia
Top Private High Schools in Atlanta Metro Area Recognized for Excellence
Fourth Measles Case Confirmed in Georgia
Additional Resources
- Atlanta News First: Measles Case Reported in Fulton County
- Wikipedia: Measles
- Axios: What You Need to Know About Measles in Georgia
- Google Search: Measles Vaccination
- WRDW: What Georgia Residents Need to Know About Measles Outbreak
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Measles
- Atlanta News First: Georgia Officials Warn of Measles Misinformation
- Google News: Measles Outbreak Georgia
- Atlanta News First: Doubts Persist, Lessons Unheeded
- Google Scholar: Measles Vaccination Rates
- Fox 5 Atlanta: 2 New Cases of Measles Reported in Metro Atlanta
Author: STAFF HERE ATLANTA WRITER
The ATLANTA STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREAtlanta.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Atlanta, Fulton County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as vibrant music festivals like Shaky Knees and Music Midtown, major cultural celebrations including Dragon Con and the Atlanta Film Festival, and iconic sporting events like the Peachtree Road Race. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Metro Atlanta Chamber of Commerce and the Atlanta Convention & Visitors Bureau, plus leading businesses in logistics, beverages, and retail that power the local economy such as Delta Air Lines, The Coca-Cola Company, and The Home Depot. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAugusta.com and HERESavannah.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Georgia's dynamic landscape.
