TN Health Department reports first positive measles case since 2019

KNOXVILLE, Tenn. (WATE) — The Tennessee Department of Health is tracking the first case of measles in the state since 2019.

The health department on Tuesday confirmed a single positive measles test of a Tennessee resident who recently travelled internationally, spent time in Kentucky during the infectious period, and is now recovering from the virus.

No other positive cases have been identified in Tennessee.

Measles symptoms can include fever, headache, and generally not feeling well, followed by fever, rash, cough, red eyes, or congestion. The illness is typically accompanied by a red, spotty rash that begins on the face and spreads over the body.

The measles virus can spread through the air when an infected person speaks, coughs or sneezes. Suspected measles cases can be reported to the Tennessee Department of Health at 615-741-7247.

Multiple cases of measles were reported in Tennessee in 2019.

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