MARYLAND — A measles outbreak has been declared in St. Mary’s, Carroll and Cecil counties as new cases of the respiratory illness have been confirmed in 14 unvaccinated residents, the Maryland Department of Health confirmed Monday.
No evidence of widespread transmission has been confirmed and most cases are reported to have occurred in household contacts. 31 cases of measles have been confirmed in the state this year, with 27 since July 2026. All of those 27 individuals did not have a vaccination against measles.
“Measles is highly contagious and we are actively working with healthcare professionals and local health departments to support impacted communities, respond to cases and mitigate further spread,” said Maryland Department of Health Secretary Dr. Meena Seshamani. “The overall risk remains low if you are fully vaccinated. We ask that Marylanders join us in our effort to help keep our youngest safe and protect those who are most at risk. Checking your vaccination status and getting vaccinated if you are not up-to-date is the simplest and most effective way to do that.”
The first MMR vaccination is recommended for children 12 to 15 months of age, with the second dose to follow for those between 4 and 6. For those unvaccinated against measles, there is a 90% chance of infection following exposure, MDH reports.
More than 106,000 MMR vaccinations have been administered in by health departments in Maryland in 2026.
