Home / Health / Oregon Measles Alert: First Cases of 2026 Confirmed
Oregon Measles Alert: First Cases of 2026 Confirmed
13 Jan
Summary
- Oregon Health Authority confirms state's first measles cases of 2026.
- Measles symptoms include rash, fever, cough, and runny nose.
- Vaccine is 97% effective; prompt medical calls are advised.
Oregon has reported its first measles cases for 2026, according to the Oregon Health Authority and Linn County officials. The two individuals affected began exhibiting symptoms on January 5th, including fever, cough, runny nose, and a characteristic rash. This emergence highlights a concerning national trend of increasing measles rates.
Measles is highly contagious and spreads through airborne droplets when an infected person coughs or sneezes. Individuals can be contagious from four days before the rash appears up to four days after. Public health officials are advising anyone who may have been exposed to contact their healthcare provider to assess immunity, stressing the importance of vaccination.
The measles vaccine boasts a 97% effectiveness rate. Health officials strongly recommend that anyone suspecting measles symptoms, particularly those with a rash or recent exposure, call ahead to their healthcare provider or urgent care center before arriving to prevent further spread.
