MEMPHIS, Tenn. – Shelby County health officials warned Thursday the potential of a measles exposure at Memphis International Airport after a traveler arrived with symptoms of the contagious disease.
In a news release, the county’s Health Department (SCHD) said that person came from a different state.
Health officials they were working with state and federal partners to identify people who might have been exposed to the disease. “The measles virus spreads easily through the air when an infected person coughs or sneezes,” the health department said.
SCHD said people who were at the airport during the following times might have been exposed:
11 p.m. Dec. 30-2 a.m. Dec. 31, 2025Noon-6:30 p.m. Jan. 3, 2026
SCHD said there are no confirmed cases in Shelby County risk to the public is low.
The Shelby County Health Department issued the following advice for those who might have been exposed to the measles:
“The following usually begin 7–14 days after exposure but can take up to 21 days to appear:
FeverCoughRunny noseRed or watery eyesWhite spots inside the mouthA red rash that usually starts on the face and spreads
If you have symptoms that could be measles, do NOT go to a doctor’s office, urgent care, or emergency room without calling ahead first. Measles spreads very easily, and going in without notice could expose others.
If you have symptoms:
Call your healthcare provider firstFollow their instructions about where and how to get care safelyStay home and avoid contact with others
What to Do If You Were at the Airport
Check whether you have had the measles (MMR) vaccine. If you are unsure, contact your healthcare provider.Watch for symptoms for 21 days after your possible exposureIf you are not vaccinated and were at the airport during the exposure dates/times, contact the Shelby County Health Department at 901-222-9243.
People who have not been vaccinated against measles should receive at least one dose of the MMR vaccine, unless your healthcare provider has told you shouldn’t receive it. Those who work in healthcare settings should receive two doses, 28 days apart. If you are unsure whether or not you have received the MMR vaccine, contact your healthcare provider to determine your vaccination status and if you should be vaccinated against measles.
Currently, there are no measles cases in Shelby County and the threat to the public is considered to be low.”
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