Full Breakdown
Maryland Declares Measles Outbreak in Three Counties
8/25/2026, 12:35:34 AM
Core Event: Outbreak Declaration and New Cases
On Monday, the Maryland Department of Health (MDH) officially declared a measles outbreak in St. Mary’s, Carroll and Cecil counties after confirming 14 new cases among residents who had not received the measles, mumps and rubella (MMR) vaccine. State officials reported no public-exposure locations linked to these cases and noted that most infections occurred among household contacts, indicating no evidence of widespread community transmission.
Background & Context
Maryland’s measles activity was minimal in prior years—only one case each in 2023 and 2024, and three cases in 2025. The situation changed dramatically in 2026: the state recorded 31 confirmed measles cases this year, with 27 cases confirmed since July 15 in unvaccinated residents. The surge follows a period in early July when the total remained in the single digits (nine cases as of July 16), driven largely by travel-related exposures.
Data & Statistics
- Total confirmed cases in 2026: 31 (27 since July 15).
- County distribution of the 27 recent cases: St. Mary’s, Carroll, Cecil, Charles.
- Earlier 2026 cases (pre-July 15): two in Anne Arundel, one in Baltimore, one in Prince George’s.
- Vaccination coverage: Approximately 96 % of Maryland residents have vaccine-based protection against measles; 96.7 % of kindergartners were reported vaccinated for the 2025-2026 school year.
- MMR doses administered in 2026: More than 106,000 total, including over 24,000 since July 1.
Official Statements & Responses
Maryland Department of Health Secretary Dr. Meena Seshamani emphasized the contagious nature of measles and MDH’s coordination with local health departments to support affected communities, respond to cases, and limit further spread. She reiterated that the overall risk remains low for individuals who are fully vaccinated and urged residents to verify their vaccination status and receive any missing doses.
MDH is expanding vaccination opportunities in the affected counties, promoting the routine MMR schedule (first dose at 12-15 months, second dose at 4-6 years) and recommending an early dose for infants 6-11 months who live in or travel to outbreak areas. Residents can check their immunization records through the state’s My Immunization Record (MyIR) system or by contacting their health-care provider.
Verbatim Quotes
- “Measles is highly contagious and we are actively working with healthcare professionals and local health departments to support impacted communities, respond to cases and mitigate further spread,” — Maryland Department
What’s Next
MDH advises that individuals whose exposure occurred on or after April 14, 2026 may be eligible for post-exposure prophylaxis, such as immune globulin or an additional vaccine dose, depending on age and health status. The department will continue monitoring case counts, investigating household clusters, and coordinating with county health officials to provide vaccine clinics and public-health information as needed.
