Health officials warn of measles exposure risk in Central Kentucky as outbreak grows

LEXINGTON, Ky. (ABC36 NEWS NOW) — Health officials are warning Central Kentucky residents about possible exposure to measles as the outbreak continues to grow across the region.

What began in Woodford County has now spread into Fayette County and potentially Jessamine County, where people in Nicholasville may have been exposed, according to state health leaders. In total, six cases have been confirmed in Kentucky so far.

Dr. Steven Stack, secretary of the Kentucky Cabinet for Health and Family Services, called measles “one of the most contagious human diseases on the planet,” noting that one infected person can transmit the virus to up to 18 others who are not immunized.

“The message is real simple: Get vaccinated. Please get vaccinated,” Dr. Stack said. “If you get two doses of the measles, mumps, and rubella vaccine, it is 97% effective from preventing you from ever getting measles.”

The virus spreads through the air and can remain in the area for up to two hours. Symptoms typically begin 8–12 days after exposure and include high fever, cough, runny nose, and red or watery eyes. A rash usually appears 3–5 days later, starting on the face and spreading to the rest of the body.

Health officials are especially concerned because Kentucky’s vaccination rate among kindergartners has fallen to just under 87%, well below the national average of 93%. Two doses of the MMR vaccine are required for school attendance in Kentucky.

Stack says misinformation has contributed to vaccine hesitancy:

“It breaks my heart that these parents… are receiving really misleading and confusing, and quite frankly often wrong, information.”

For those with questions about the MMR vaccine or measles, Stack urges people to speak with a health care provider or contact the Cabinet for Health and Family Services.