Measles Outbreak Expands with New Case Confirmed in Michigan

OAKLAND COUNTY, Mich. — Health officials have confirmed Michigan‘s first case of measles in 2025, linked to an adult who recently traveled internationally. The Oakland County case was announced during a press conference on March 14.

The individual developed symptoms on March 3 and exhibited a rash starting March 7. They sought medical care on March 8 and 10. Oakland County Health Officer Kate Guzmán noted that the individual’s vaccination status is currently unknown, but the period of infectiousness spans from March 3 to March 11.

As of March 14, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reported a total of 301 confirmed measles cases across the United States for the year. The ongoing outbreaks in Texas and New Mexico, which have reported a combined total of 208 confirmed cases and two deaths, have raised concerns among health officials.

Guzmán emphasized the importance of vaccination, stating, “This case of measles is a reminder of how easily this highly contagious disease can spread, particularly with international travel. Vaccination remains our best defense against measles and is highly efficient at protecting individuals and preventing outbreaks.”

Measles is highly contagious and can be transmitted through air and direct contact, remaining infectious for up to two hours in the environment after an infected person leaves. Symptoms typically appear 7-14 days after exposure and include high fever, cough, runny nose, conjunctivitis, and a distinctive rash.

The Michigan Department of Health and Human Services (MDHHS) advises that anyone who may have been exposed, especially unvaccinated individuals over one year of age, should receive the measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR) vaccine promptly.

In Oakland County, vaccination rates for childhood immunization against measles stand around 80%, significantly below the threshold needed to prevent outbreaks. The CDC recommends that schools and community health organizations actively promote vaccination to increase coverage.

Dr. Natasha Bagdasarian, chief medical executive of the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services, stated, “Individuals who have not been vaccinated should check their vaccination status and consider getting vaccinated, particularly those planning to travel. If symptoms develop, they should seek care immediately and inform healthcare providers of any potential exposure to measles.”

The CDC’s response strategy includes educating healthcare professionals to recognize measles symptoms and to report suspected cases. Testing is recommended for all suspected cases, with reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) testing as a primary method.

In light of the current outbreaks, health officials remind the public to be vigilant about measles symptoms, especially during upcoming travel and spring break activities. Vaccination remains the most effective way to mitigate the risk of infection and spread.