Maryland Measles Alert: Potential Exposure at Westminster Hospital

Five Maryland residents have been diagnosed with measles, bringing the state's total confirmed cases for 2026 to nine. These individuals recently traveled together to a location within the United States experiencing an active measles outbreak. Health officials identified a potential exposure risk for individuals who were in the Carroll Hospital Center Emergency Department waiting room in Westminster on July 13, between 2 p.m. and 5 p.m.

Measles is a highly contagious illness that spreads through the air via respiratory droplets. The virus can remain airborne for up to two hours after an infected person has left an area. The health department advises that individuals unsure of their vaccination status should verify if they have received two doses of a measles vaccine or were born before 1957. Those not fully vaccinated and potentially exposed are urged to contact their local health department and monitor for symptoms for 21 days.

Early symptoms of measles include a fever exceeding 101 degrees Fahrenheit, accompanied by a runny nose, cough, and red, watery eyes. A distinctive red rash typically appears on the face one to four days after initial symptoms and then spreads to the rest of the body.