Four new measles cases reported in Kentucky; health officials urge vaccinations
FRANKFORT, Ky. (ABC36 NEWS NOW) — Kentucky health officials have reported four new measles cases this week, bringing the total number of confirmed cases in the state to six for 2025, according to a release from the Kentucky Department for Public Health.
Three of the new cases are within the same household in Woodford County, while the fourth case—reported in Todd County—is unrelated and involved an individual who had recently traveled internationally. None of the four individuals were vaccinated against measles.
Health officials say they are working to identify anyone who may have been exposed while the infected individuals were contagious.
The outbreak comes as national measles cases continue to climb. The CDC has reported over 1,200 cases this year, the most in the U.S. since measles was declared eliminated in 2000.
Health experts say the MMR (measles, mumps, rubella) vaccine is highly effective, with two doses offering 97% protection. Officials are also encouraging travelers to ensure they are fully vaccinated, as international travel has been a source of exposure in several cases.
