Maryland Department of Health declares measles outbreak in 3 counties with 14 new cases

August 24, 2026 - 23:34

The Maryland Department of Health has officially declared a measles outbreak spanning three counties, following the confirmation of fourteen new cases. This brings the total number of infections in the state to a level that health officials now consider an active public health concern. The affected counties were not all immediately named in the initial announcement, but the department has urged residents in the region to review their vaccination records and watch for symptoms.

Health officials say the cases are linked to a small number of unvaccinated individuals who traveled internationally, though the exact source of exposure is still under investigation. Measles is highly contagious and can remain in the air for up to two hours after an infected person leaves a room. Symptoms typically include high fever, cough, runny nose, red eyes, and a characteristic rash that spreads from the face downward.

The department is working with local health departments to identify close contacts and contain further spread. They are also reminding the public that the MMR vaccine is safe and effective, with two doses providing about 97 percent protection. Anyone who is unsure of their vaccination status or who has been in a public place in the affected counties within the past week is advised to contact their healthcare provider. The outbreak is a stark reminder that measles can return quickly when vaccination rates drop, even in areas with strong health infrastructure.