The Maryland Department of Health (MDH) has confirmed five new cases of measles in Central Maryland residents who recently traveled together to an area of the U.S. experiencing an active measles outbreak.
Health officials say anyone who was at the following location during the listed time may have been exposed:
- Carroll Hospital Center Emergency Department Waiting Room (200 Memorial Ave., Westminster)
- Monday, July 13, from 2pm to 5pm
Measles is a highly contagious virus that spreads through the air when an infected person coughs, sneezes, or even breathes. The virus can remain in the air for up to two hours after an infected person leaves an area.
Anyone who believes they may have been exposed should first determine whether they are protected. People who have received two doses of the measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR) vaccine, previously had measles, or were born before 1957 are generally considered immune. Those who are not fully vaccinated should contact their healthcare provider or local health department as soon as possible, as post-exposure treatment may be available.
People who were at the hospital during the exposure window and are not immune should monitor for symptoms for 21 days after the potential exposure.
Early symptoms include a fever above 101 degrees, runny nose, cough, and red, watery eyes. A red rash typically develops one to four days later, beginning on the face before spreading to the rest of the body. Symptoms usually appear 10 to 14 days after exposure but can develop anywhere from seven to 21 days later.
Anyone who develops symptoms should stay home, avoid work, school, child care, and public places, and contact their healthcare provider before arriving at a medical facility so precautions can be taken to prevent further spread.
The Maryland Department of Health recommends that all eligible residents stay up to date on their MMR vaccinations. The first dose is routinely given between 12 and 15 months of age, with a second dose between 4 and 6 years old.
With these newly confirmed cases, Maryland has now reported nine measles cases in 2026. The state recorded three cases in 2025, one in 2024, and one in 2023. Additional information about past measles cases in Maryland is available on the Department website.
