Georgia confirms first measles case of 2026 in infant

Health officials say the baby contracted measles during international travel and stress the importance of MMR vaccination

MACON, Georgia (41NBC/WMGT)- The Georgia Department of Public Health has confirmed the state’s first measles case of 2026, involving a baby who was too young to receive routine measles vaccination.

According to DPH, the child lives in the Coastal Health District and acquired the virus while traveling internationally. Public health officials are now working to identify individuals who may have been exposed through contact with the child.

The Coastal Health District of Georgia serves Bryan, Camden, Chatham, Effingham, Glynn, Liberty, Long, and McIntosh Counties.

Measles spreads easily through the air

Measles is highly contagious and spreads through the air when an infected person coughs or sneezes. The virus can remain in the air or on surfaces for up to two hours after an infected person has left a room, health officials said.

Symptoms typically appear seven to 14 days after exposure and include a high fever, cough, runny nose and watery eyes. A rash of tiny red spots then develops, usually starting on the head and spreading to the rest of the body.

MMR vaccine recommended to prevent measles

DPH emphasized that the measles, mumps and rubella (MMR) vaccine is safe and effective in preventing measles and rubella.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommends children receive their first dose of the MMR vaccine between 12 and 15 months of age and a second dose between 4 and 6 years old. For infants ages 6 to 11 months who are traveling internationally, the CDC recommends one dose of the MMR vaccine before travel, followed by two additional doses after the child’s first birthday.

More than 95% of people who receive one dose of the MMR vaccine develop immunity to all three viruses, according to DPH. A second dose typically increases protection to about 98%.

Vaccinated individuals also help protect others who are too young or medically unable to receive vaccines, health officials said.

What to do if symptoms appear

People who develop measles symptoms are urged to contact their healthcare provider immediately. DPH advised individuals not to go to a doctor’s office, hospital or public health clinic without calling ahead to report symptoms.

Healthcare providers who suspect measles in a patient are required to notify public health officials immediately.

DPH said Georgia recorded 10 confirmed measles cases in 2025.