The Georgia Department of Public Health (DPH) has confirmed a case of measles in an unvaccinated resident of Bryan County. The individual, who had recently traveled out of state but not internationally, is the second reported measles case in Georgia in 2026. In 2025, there were ten confirmed cases across the state.
DPH is reaching out to individuals who may have been exposed and are at increased risk for developing measles. Measles is known for its high level of contagiousness and can spread through the air when an infected person coughs or sneezes. The virus can remain present in the air or on surfaces for up to two hours after the infected person leaves.
Symptoms generally appear seven to fourteen days after exposure and include high fever, cough, runny nose, watery eyes, followed by a rash that starts at the head and spreads over the body.
The MMR vaccine protects against measles and rubella. According to DPH, “The vaccine is safe and effective, and parents with questions about the vaccine or the vaccination schedule can consult their physician.” The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommends children receive their first dose between 12 and 15 months old and a second dose between ages four and six. For infants aged six to eleven months traveling internationally, a single dose before travel is recommended, followed by two additional doses after their first birthday.
More than 95% of people receiving one dose develop immunity to all three viruses covered by the vaccine; a second dose increases protection to approximately 98%. Vaccinated individuals also help protect those who cannot be vaccinated due to age or medical reasons.
Anyone showing symptoms should contact their healthcare provider before visiting any medical facility. Healthcare providers who suspect measles are advised to notify public health authorities immediately.
The DPH advances public health efforts statewide through coordinated initiatives that aim to prevent disease and injury while supporting community well-being (https://dph.georgia.gov/). Kathleen Toomey serves as commissioner of DPH (https://dph.georgia.gov/). The department provides services such as immunizations, vital records, laboratory testing, infectious disease control, chronic disease prevention, and disaster preparedness (https://dph.georgia.gov/).
For more information about measles visit the Georgia Department of Public Health website or the CDC website.
