Gastonia, North Carolina — A potentially infectious individual with measles visited Gaston County during the holiday season, prompting health officials to issue a warning to the community. The North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services announced that anyone who dined at Constantine’s Restaurant in Gastonia after 8:30 p.m. on December 26, 2025, should be vigilant for symptoms of the disease until January 16.
The same individual also participated in Christmas Town USA festivities in McAdenville earlier that evening, between 5:30 and 8 p.m. While they did not enter any indoor venues, officials say the risk of spreading measles to others during the outdoor event remains low.
Measles, known for its high transmissibility, is primarily spread through respiratory droplets generated by coughing and sneezing. This makes monitoring for symptoms particularly important for those who may have been exposed.
As of December 30, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reported 2,065 confirmed cases of measles across 44 states in 2025. This outbreak underscores the continuing challenges posed by vaccine-preventable diseases in the United States.
Common symptoms to watch for include high fever that may exceed 104 degrees Fahrenheit, persistent cough, runny nose, and red, watery eyes. Additional indicators include the appearance of tiny white spots inside the mouth—known as Koplik spots—typically occurring two to three days after the onset of initial symptoms. A distinctive red, raised rash generally emerges on the face before spreading to the trunk, arms, and legs several days later.
In a related incident, a traveler infected with measles had previously passed through Terminal 2 of Raleigh-Durham International Airport in December. Current health officials stress the importance of community awareness and vaccination in order to prevent further outbreaks.
Residents who suspect exposure or exhibit symptoms are encouraged to contact their healthcare providers for guidance. Timely intervention is crucial to managing and containing the spread of measles, along with increasing awareness about the importance of vaccinations.
