Kentucky confirms first measles case of 2026 after exposure in Fayette County

LEXINGTON, Ky. (ABC36 NEWS NOW) — Kentucky has confirmed its first measles case of 2026, involving an unvaccinated Jessamine County resident who was exposed while in Fayette County, according to state health officials.

The Kentucky Department for Public Health announced Thursday that the person tested positive after being exposed to an out-of-state traveler who was infectious while visiting Fayette County between Dec. 31 and Jan. 2.

Health officials say the exposure led to community exposures that were first announced by the Lexington-Fayette County Health Department on Jan. 9.

State officials emphasized that this case is not connected to separate measles exposures reported in Grant County in late December, which were linked to a different out-of-state visitor.

Public health officials are now working to identify and notify anyone who may have been exposed as a result of the Jessamine County case. The state says it is supporting local health departments as contact tracing continues.

“Measles is a serious and contagious virus that has seen a resurgence in recent years,” said Steven Stack, secretary of the Kentucky Cabinet for Health and Family Services. “We continue to urge families to take these risks seriously and to protect themselves and their communities by getting the measles, mumps, and rubella vaccine.”

According to the state, people who may have been exposed should monitor themselves for symptoms for 21 days after their potential exposure.

“Symptoms include fever, cough, runny nose, red eyes, and rash,” said John Langefeld, commissioner of the Kentucky Department for Public Health. “If you believe that you have been exposed to measles and you have symptoms, please call your health care provider.”

Measles is a highly contagious respiratory virus that spreads through the air and can remain in enclosed spaces for up to two hours. Health officials say the virus can cause serious complications, especially in young children.

The state says the best protection against measles is the MMR vaccine. Two doses of the vaccine are about 97 percent effective at preventing infection. While the vaccine is commonly given in childhood, officials say people of any age can check with their doctor, pharmacy, or local health department about vaccination.

Anyone unsure of their vaccination status can contact their health care provider or check the Kentucky Immunization Registry Public Portal.

Health officials say the overall risk to the general public remains low. They continue to encourage basic prevention steps, including frequent handwashing, covering coughs and sneezes, and staying home when sick.

More information about measles and public exposure updates is available through the Kentucky Department for Public Health by clicking HERE.