The Georgia Department of Public Health (DPH) has confirmed a case of measles in a baby residing in the Coastal Health District. The child, who is too young to receive the routine measles vaccination, contracted the virus during international travel. DPH officials are working to identify anyone who may have been exposed through contact with the infected child.
Measles is highly contagious and can spread through airborne droplets when an infected person coughs or sneezes. The virus can remain present in the air or on surfaces for up to two hours after an infected individual has left the area.
Symptoms usually develop 7 to 14 days after exposure and include high fever, cough, runny nose, watery eyes, and a rash that starts at the head before spreading across the body.
According to DPH, “The MMR (measles, mumps, rubella) vaccine can prevent measles and rubella. The vaccine is safe and effective, and parents with questions about the vaccine or the vaccination schedule can consult their physician.” The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends children receive their first dose of MMR between 12 and 15 months old, followed by a second dose between ages four and six. For infants aged six to eleven months traveling internationally, CDC advises one dose before travel and two additional doses after their first birthday.
DPH notes that more than 95% of people who get one dose of MMR develop immunity against all three viruses; a second dose increases protection to about 98%. Vaccinated individuals also help protect those who cannot be vaccinated due to age or medical reasons.
Anyone experiencing symptoms consistent with measles should contact their healthcare provider immediately but should not visit medical facilities without calling ahead. Healthcare providers suspecting measles are urged to notify public health authorities right away.
This marks Georgia’s first reported measles case in 2026; there were ten confirmed cases in 2025. Additional information on measles is available from the Georgia Department of Public Health or the CDC.
