Measles outbreak declared in 3 Maryland counties

Christopher Scarglato, The Baltimore Sun on Aug 24, 2026

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BALTIMORE — Maryland officials declared a measles outbreak in three counties as cases continue to rise, according to the Maryland Department of Health.

Officials identified St. Mary’s, Carroll and Cecil counties as outbreak spots. MDH is investigating 14 new confirmed cases in unvaccinated Maryland residents. No public exposures have been identified in the cases, officials said.

MDH defines an outbreak as two or more linked cases emerging within 42 days, with a minimum of one lab-confirmed case, spokesperson Amanda Hills told The Baltimore Sun; “however, public health experts evaluate these on a case-by-case basis,” she wrote in an email.

Measles is a highly contagious virus that easily spreads through the air. It’s characterized by a high fever, cough and a blotchy red rash that begins on the face and spreads downward, according to the Mayo Clinic.

There are currently 31 confirmed measles cases in Maryland this year, with 27 confirmed — all from unvaccinated residents — since July 15.

“Measles is highly contagious, and we are actively working with healthcare professionals and local health departments to support impacted communities, respond to cases and mitigate further spread,” said MDH Secretary Dr. Meena Seshamani in a statement.

Officials said that if someone is not protected from the disease, there’s a 90% chance they will become infected if they come in contact with the virus.

Maryland local health departments are administering MMR and other vaccines as a way to combat the virus, officials said.

The Carroll County Health Department declined to comment on the local cases and said inquiries must be made via the state health department.

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(Gabriella Fine contributed to this article.)

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