Measles Cases Confirmed in Massachusetts Residents, First Since 2024

The Massachusetts Department of Public Health (DPH) announced Friday the confirmation of two measles cases in state residents, marking the first cases reported since 2024. One case involves an adult in the Greater Boston area, and the other a school-aged child exposed and diagnosed out of state.

Details of the Cases

The adult case involves a resident of Greater Boston who recently returned from international travel. Their vaccination history is currently uncertain, according to the DPH. Health officials are working to identify and notify individuals who may have been exposed at locations the adult visited although infectious.

The second case involves a school-aged child who was exposed to measles and diagnosed while out of state. The child remains out of state during the infectious period, and health officials report no known exposures within Massachusetts stemming from this case.

Measles: A Highly Contagious Virus

Measles is a highly contagious virus, capable of spreading to 90 percent of those exposed who are not protected by vaccination or prior infection, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).

Early symptoms, appearing 10-14 days after exposure, often resemble a cold, including fever, cough, and a runny nose. A rash typically develops 2-4 days after these initial symptoms, usually starting on the head and spreading downward.

Rising Cases Nationally

The resurgence of measles in the United States is linked to lower vaccination rates. In 2023, 2,281 measles cases were reported nationwide, the highest number since 1992, resulting in three deaths. As of January 2026, the U.S. Is on track to surpass that number, with 1,136 cases reported so far this year. Outbreaks have been reported in states like Texas and South Carolina. Maine has reported five cases and Vermont one so far this year.

Vaccination and Prevention

The Measles, Mumps, and Rubella (MMR) vaccine is highly effective, preventing measles in 93-97% of those vaccinated with two doses. Children should receive two doses of the MMR vaccine, one at 12-15 months and another at 4-6 years.

Adults born before 1957 are generally considered immune. Adults who have received at least one MMR vaccine or have had measles are also immune. A blood test can confirm immunity. Adults vaccinated before 1968 may need additional protection due to the less effective vaccines used at that time and should consult their healthcare provider.

Massachusetts Vaccination Rates

Massachusetts has a high vaccination rate, with over 96% of kindergarteners vaccinated against measles as of the 2024-25 school year. Still, state data indicates pockets of lower vaccination rates in western Massachusetts and on Cape Cod. Areas of vulnerability in the Greater Boston area were also identified in a recent study from Boston Children’s Hospital, with some zip codes at “high” risk of an outbreak.

What to Do If You Suspect Measles

If you believe you or someone you know may have been exposed to or is sick with measles, contact your healthcare provider immediately. It is recommended to call before visiting to allow for appropriate precautions.

For Boston residents:

• Boston Public Health Commission: 617-534-5611
• Infectious Disease Email: infectiousdisease@bphc.org

For Massachusetts residents:

• Massachusetts Department of Public Health, Bureau of Infectious Disease and Laboratory Sciences: 617-983-6800