The Georgia Department of Public Health (DPH) has confirmed a case of measles in an unvaccinated resident from Bryan County. The individual had traveled out of state but did not have a history of international travel. DPH is working to notify those who may have been exposed and are at higher risk for developing the disease.
Measles is known for its high level of contagion, spreading through airborne particles when an infected person coughs or sneezes. The virus can remain present in the air or on surfaces for up to two hours after the infected person has left.
Symptoms usually appear between 7 and 14 days following exposure. These include high fever, cough, runny nose, watery eyes, and later a rash that starts at the head and spreads to the rest of 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 recommends children receive their first dose of MMR vaccine between 12 and 15 months old, with a second dose between ages four and six. For infants aged six to eleven months traveling internationally, one dose before travel is advised, followed by two more doses after their first birthday.
More than 95% of people who get one dose 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.
DPH advises anyone experiencing symptoms consistent with measles to contact their healthcare provider before visiting any medical facility: “People with measles symptoms should contact their healthcare provider immediately. DO NOT go to the doctor’s office, the hospital, or a public health clinic without first calling to let them know about your symptoms.” Healthcare providers suspecting measles are urged to notify public health authorities right away.
This marks Georgia’s second reported case in 2026; there were ten confirmed cases in 2025.
DPH leads statewide efforts aimed at protecting lives through coordinated public health initiatives such as immunizations and infectious disease control. The department works alongside local health districts and community partners across Georgia (https://dph.georgia.gov/). Kathleen Toomey serves as commissioner (https://dph.georgia.gov/).
For additional information on measles prevention and updates visit Georgia Department of Public Health or CDC Measles page.
