Measles case confirmed in Baltimore after international travel, health officials report

April 19, 2026 - 21:32

A single confirmed case of measles has been identified in the Baltimore metropolitan region, the Maryland Department of Health announced. The infected individual is a resident who recently returned from international travel.

Health officials are now working to identify anyone who may have been exposed to the contagious virus. Measles spreads easily through the air when an infected person coughs or sneezes, and viral particles can remain in a room for up to two hours after the sick person has left. Symptoms typically appear one to two weeks after exposure and include high fever, cough, runny nose, red and watery eyes, followed by a characteristic red rash that spreads from the face downward.

The department strongly emphasized the safety and effectiveness of the measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR) vaccine. Two doses of the MMR vaccine are approximately 97% effective at preventing measles. Vaccination not only protects individuals but also safeguards those who cannot be immunized, including infants and people with certain medical conditions. Officials urge all Marylanders to check their vaccination status and consult with a healthcare provider to ensure they are fully protected against this serious disease.