The Georgia Department of Public Health (DPH) has confirmed a case of measles in an infant who is too young to receive the routine measles vaccination. The child, who resides in the Coastal Health District, contracted the virus during international travel. DPH officials are currently working to identify individuals who may have come into contact with the baby and could be at risk of exposure.
Measles is known for its high level of contagiousness, spreading through airborne droplets when an infected person coughs or sneezes. The virus can linger in the air or on surfaces for up to two hours after an infected individual has left the area.
Symptoms generally develop 7 to 14 days following exposure and include high fever, cough, runny nose, and watery eyes. These symptoms are followed by a rash that starts at the head and spreads across the body.
The MMR vaccine protects against measles, mumps, and rubella. It is considered safe and effective. “Parents with questions about the vaccine or the vaccination schedule can consult their physician,” according to DPH. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) advises that children should receive their first dose of MMR between 12 and 15 months old, with a second dose administered between ages four and six. For infants aged six to eleven months traveling internationally, CDC recommends one dose before departure followed by two additional doses after their first birthday.
Health authorities report that more than 95% of people develop immunity after one dose of MMR vaccine; 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 urges anyone showing symptoms consistent with measles to contact their healthcare provider before visiting any medical facility in person. Healthcare professionals suspecting measles are instructed to notify public health authorities immediately.
This marks Georgia’s first reported case of measles in 2026; last year there were ten confirmed cases in the state.
Further information on measles is available from both the Georgia Department of Public Health and the CDC websites.
