The Georgia Department of Public Health (DPH) has confirmed a measles case in a baby who was too young to receive the routine measles vaccination. The infant, residing in the Coastal Health District, contracted the virus during international travel. DPH officials are currently working to identify anyone who may have been exposed to the virus through contact with the child.
Measles is known for being highly contagious and can spread through airborne droplets when an infected person coughs or sneezes. The virus remains viable in the air or on surfaces for up to two hours after an infected individual has left the area.
Symptoms of measles usually appear between 7 and 14 days after exposure. These include high fever, cough, runny nose, and watery eyes, followed by a rash that starts at the head and spreads 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 get their first dose of MMR vaccine between 12 and 15 months of age and a second dose between ages four and six. For infants aged six to eleven months who are traveling internationally, CDC advises a single dose before travel, followed by two additional doses after their first birthday.
More than 95% of individuals receiving one dose of MMR develop immunity to all three viruses; a second dose increases protection to about 98%. Vaccinated individuals also contribute to protecting those who cannot be vaccinated due to age or medical reasons.
Anyone showing symptoms of measles should contact their healthcare provider before visiting any medical facility. Healthcare providers who suspect measles are required to notify public health authorities immediately.
This is Georgia’s first reported case of measles in 2026. In comparison, there were ten confirmed cases statewide in 2025.
Additional information about measles can be found on the Georgia Department of Public Health website at https://dph.georgia.gov/epidemiology/acute-disease-epidemiology/vaccine-preventable-diseases/measles or through the CDC at https://www.cdc.gov/measles/index.html.
