Kentucky reports first positive measles case in 2026

Jessamine County resident exposed in Fayette County by out-of-state visitor

FRANKFORT, Ky. – Health officials have announced the first positive measles case of 2026 in Kentucky, which has been confirmed in Jessamine County.

According to a release by the Cabinet for Health and Family Services, the Kentucky Department for Public Health made the announcement Thursday, Jan. 15, stating an unvaccinated Jessamine County resident has tested positive for the virus.

This is the first confirmed case in a Kentucky resident since July 2025, according to health officials.

The person was exposed to measles when an out-of-state traveler who was infectious visited Fayette County between Dec. 31 and Jan. 2, the release states. Health officials say the case of measles is not related to exposures between Dec. 28-30 in Grant County, which were linked to a different out-of-state visitor.

According to the release, officials are investigating additional community exposures to measles as a result of the Jessamine County case.

“Measles is a serious and contagious virus that has seen a resurgence in recent years,” said Dr. Steven Stack, secretary of the Kentucky Cabinet for Health and Family Services. “We continue to urge families to take these risks seriously and to protect themselves and their communities by getting the measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR) vaccine.”

Health officials say measles is a “highly contagious respiratory virus that can cause serious health complications,” especially in children. Measles is spread through the air, where it can remain for up to two hours, according to health officials.

“People who may have been exposed should monitor themselves for symptoms for 21 days after potential exposure,” said Kentucky Department for Public Health commissioner Dr. John Langefeld. “Symptoms include fever, cough, runny nose, red eyes and rash. If you believe that you have been exposed to measles and you have symptoms, please call your health care provider.”

According to the release, the best way to protect against measles is through the MMR vaccine, which health officials say is 97% effective against the virus.

Health officials say people of any age can reach out to their doctor, pharmacy or local health department about receiving the vaccine. If you are unsure about your vaccination status, you can visit the Kentucky Department for Public Health’s Kentucky Immunization Registry Public Portal or contact your health care provider.

Currently, health officials say the risk to the broader public is low. They encourage proper health habits to prevent transmission of measles and other illnesses.

To learn more about measles, visit the Kentucky Department for Public Health’s measles webpage.