Measles Outbreak Declared in Washtenaw County, Michigan
The Michigan Department of Health and Human Services (MDHHS) has confirmed a measles outbreak in Washtenaw County, marking the state’s first outbreak of 2026. As of Wednesday, March 25, 2026, health officials have identified seven cases of measles linked to the initial case reported on March 11 [1].
Initial Cases and Exposure Locations
The outbreak began with an unvaccinated adult who contracted measles while traveling in Florida, where an ongoing outbreak exists. This individual subsequently spread the infection to others who were in direct contact with them, all of whom were also unvaccinated [2].
Health officials have identified potential exposure sites in Ann Arbor and Ypsilanti, including Kroger on Whittaker Road and Washtenaw Community College [3]. Individuals who visited these locations are urged to monitor for symptoms for 21 days.
Measles Symptoms and Transmission
Measles is a highly contagious viral illness characterized by several distinct symptoms, including:
- High fever (up to 40 degrees Celsius)
- Cough
- Runny nose
- Red, watery eyes
- Tiny white spots inside the cheeks, gums and roof of the mouth
- A rash that begins as flat red spots on the hairline and spreads to the rest of the body [2].
Symptoms typically appear 7-14 days after exposure, but can take up to 21 days to manifest. Importantly, individuals can be contagious even before symptoms appear [2].
Statewide and National Trends
The Washtenaw County outbreak occurs amidst a broader increase in measles cases nationwide. More than 1,350 measles cases have been reported across 31 states during the first three months of 2026 [1], [2].
Public Health Recommendations
Public health officials strongly urge families to ensure they are up to date on all vaccinations, particularly the measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR) vaccine. Two doses of the MMR vaccine offer 97% protection against measles [1].
“Measles cases are spreading like wildfire this year, and with families traveling over spring break the risk of exposure increases,” said Dr. Natasha Bagdasarian, chief medical executive at MDHHS [1], [2].
Individuals who suspect they may have measles are advised to contact their healthcare provider before seeking in-person testing or treatment to prevent further spread of the disease.
Resources
For more information about measles and the outbreak in Washtenaw County, visit michigan.gov/measles.
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