Michigan has confirmed a recent outbreak of measles, marking its first since 2019. Two counties have reported cases, prompting health officials to stress the importance of vaccinations.

Details of the Outbreak

The Michigan Department of Health and Human Services (MDHHS) reported the initial case in Oakland County on March 14, followed by an additional outbreak in Montcalm County, which was announced on April 17 after three cases were identified.

As of April 10, 2025, a total of eight measles cases have been recorded across the state this year. This outbreak is part of a larger trend, as nationwide, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) confirmed over 700 cases of measles across multiple states this year.

Health Officials’ Guidance

Dr. Natasha Bagdasarian, the MDHHS chief medical executive, emphasized the highly contagious nature of measles, stating, “The outbreak underscores how contagious measles is and how quickly it can spread.” She highlighted that the Measles, Mumps, and Rubella (MMR) vaccine remains the most effective preventive measure, providing 97% protection against the disease when both doses are administered.

Health authorities urge Michigan residents to verify their vaccination status, particularly individuals aged 1 year and older who have not yet received the MMR vaccine. Vaccines are readily available through doctors, pharmacies, and local health departments.

Nationwide Context

This Michigan outbreak is not isolated; several other U.S. states— Texas, New Mexico, Kansas, Ohio, Indiana, Pennsylvania, and California—have also reported measles cases this year, indicating a growing concern among public health officials.

Understanding Measles Symptoms

Measles can be a serious illness, especially affecting unvaccinated individuals and school-aged children. Symptoms typically surface 7 to 14 days after exposure and include:

• Fever
• Cough
• Red and watery eyes
• Runny nose
• A rash that begins on the face and spreads throughout the body

Protecting Yourself and Others

To prevent further infections, officials from MDHHS and the Mid-Michigan District Health Department stress the importance of vaccination. They recommend that individuals ensure they are up to date on their vaccines as a protective measure against measles and its potential spread.