> At a Glance
> – A traveler who later tested positive for measles dined at Constantine’s Restaurant after 8:30 p.m. on Dec 26
> – The N.C. Department of Health and Human Services issued the warning on Jan 3
> – The same visitor also toured Christmas Town USA outdoors, so risk there is considered low
> – Why it matters: Measles is highly contagious; unvaccinated diners could develop symptoms through Jan 16
North Carolina health authorities have tied a new measles case to a popular Gastonia eatery, urging anyone who ate at Constantine’s Restaurant late on Dec 26 to monitor for symptoms.
Exposure Details
Officials say the infected traveler remained in the restaurant after 8:30 p.m., potentially exposing staff and patrons. They recommend symptom watch through Jan 16 and urge anyone who develops fever, cough, runny nose, red eyes or the tell-tale face-to-toe rash to stay home and call their local health department before seeking care.
- Monitor for symptoms through Jan 16
- Call ahead before visiting a doctor or ER
- Stay isolated unless medical care is needed
Broader Measles Activity
The announcement follows confirmation of a second 2025 measles case in Polk County, now linked to a South Carolina outbreak that has tallied 179 cases since July. A separate December exposure also occurred at Raleigh-Durham International Airport.
| Region | Cases | Timeframe |
|---|---|---|
| Upstate S.C. | 179 | Since July |
| N.C. (Polk Co.) | 1 | Late Dec |
| Airport exposure | 1 | Dec |
NCDHHS State Epidemiologist Dr. Zack Moore emphasized:
> “Getting vaccinated against measles continues to be the most important step we can take to protect ourselves and our loved ones.”
Key Takeaways
- Constantine’s diners after 8:30 p.m. on Dec 26 should watch for symptoms
- Christmas Town USA visit posed low risk because the traveler stayed outside
- Two North Carolina measles cases have already been recorded in 2025
- Nationwide, the CDC logged more than 2,000 cases across 44 states by December’s end
Vaccination remains the surest shield as regional cases climb.
