Photo: Mass.Gov
BOSTON (WBZ NewsRadio) — The Massachusetts Department of Public Health (DPH) has confirmed that two cases of measles have been diagnosed in Massachusetts residents. The first case was confirmed to be a school-aged Massachusetts resident who was exposed and diagnosed out of state and remained out of state during the infectious period.
The second case was diagnosed in an adult who lives in the Greater Boston area. The individual recently returned from international travel and had an uncertain vaccination history. During their infectious period, the individual visited several locations where exposures to others likely occurred. State and local public health officials are working with these locations to identify and notify those who were potentially exposed.
“Our first two measles cases in 2026 demonstrate the impact that the measles outbreaks, nationally and internationally, can have here at home. Fortunately, thanks to high vaccination rates, the risk to most Massachusetts residents remains low,” Public Health Commissioner Robbie Goldstein said.
Measles is caused by a highly contagious virus that is airborne and can spread very easily from person to person. Early symptoms occur 10 days to 2 weeks after exposure and typically resemble a cold or fever. A rash occurs 2-4 days after the initial symptoms develop.
The DPH encourages those who are exposed to measles and start to develop symptoms, to call their health care provider before visiting an office, clinic, or emergency department.
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