Maryland Dept. of Health declares measles outbreak in three counties as cases rise to 31

August 24, 2026 - 20:50

The Maryland Department of Health has officially declared a measles outbreak across St. Mary's, Carroll, and Cecil counties after confirming 14 new infections, bringing the total number of cases to 31. Health officials say all of the new cases are among unvaccinated individuals, and the outbreak is now spreading beyond initial household contacts.

State epidemiologists report that the majority of the newly confirmed cases are linked to a single index patient who traveled internationally earlier this month. The virus has since moved through community settings, including a daycare center in St. Mary's County and a church gathering in Carroll County. Health teams are currently tracing contacts and have identified at least 200 people who may have been exposed.

The declaration allows the state to activate emergency response protocols, including targeted vaccination clinics and stricter quarantine guidance for unvaccinated close contacts. Dr. Nilesh Kalyanaraman, the state's deputy secretary for public health, urged residents to check their immunization records, noting that two doses of the MMR vaccine are 97 percent effective against the disease. He also stressed that anyone showing symptoms such as fever, cough, or a distinctive rash should call ahead before visiting a doctor's office to avoid further spread.

Local health departments are coordinating with schools and pediatric practices to offer free vaccine catch-up appointments. Officials warn that the outbreak may continue to grow over the next two weeks, as measles has a 21-day incubation period. Residents are advised to monitor for symptoms and to isolate immediately if they suspect exposure.