Fayette County, Kentucky, January 10, 2026
Health officials are investigating a potential measles exposure linked to an unvaccinated traveler who stayed at the Hyatt Place in Hamburg. The individual visited local establishments from December 31 to January 2. Symptoms of measles can develop within 21 days of exposure, prompting health officials to urge anyone who may have been affected to consult their healthcare provider. Vaccination is highly recommended as a protective measure against the virus.
Lexington, Kentucky – Health officials have identified a potential measles exposure in Fayette County. An unvaccinated, out-of-state traveler stayed at the Hyatt Place in Hamburg from December 31, 2025, to January 2, 2026, and dined at the Hamburg Panera location on January 1. Measles is a highly contagious respiratory virus that can cause serious health complications, especially in young children. Individuals who stayed at or visited the Hyatt Place in Hamburg during the specified dates and develop symptoms are urged to contact a healthcare provider before visiting a medical facility to prevent further spread of the virus. Vaccination remains the best protection against measles, and health officials recommend that anyone who may have been exposed consult their healthcare provider.
Measles Exposure Details
- Location: Hyatt Place in Hamburg, Fayette County, Kentucky
- Exposure Dates: December 31, 2025 – January 2, 2026
- Additional Exposure: Hamburg Panera location on January 1, 2026
- Traveler’s Vaccination Status: Unvaccinated
Symptoms and Incubation Period
Measles symptoms typically appear 7 to 21 days after exposure and may include:
- Fever
- Cough
- Runny nose
- Red, watery eyes
- A rash that usually starts on the face and spreads to the rest of the body
Recommendations for Potentially Exposed Individuals
- If you stayed at or visited the Hyatt Place in Hamburg between December 31, 2025, and January 2, 2026, and develop symptoms, contact a healthcare provider before visiting a medical facility to prevent further spread of the virus.
- Vaccination remains the best protection against measles. If you are unvaccinated or not fully vaccinated, consult your healthcare provider about receiving the MMR vaccine.
Background on Measles in Kentucky
Measles is a highly contagious viral illness that can lead to serious health complications, including pneumonia, encephalitis, and death. The virus is transmitted through direct contact with infectious droplets or by airborne spread when an infected person breathes, coughs, or sneezes. Measles can remain infectious in the air and on surfaces for up to two hours after an infected person leaves an area. Infected individuals are contagious from four days before the rash starts through four days afterward. The incubation period for measles from exposure to fever is usually about 10 days, and from exposure to rash onset is usually about 14 days. Vaccination is the most effective way to prevent measles and its complications.
Additional Information
For more information about measles symptoms, prevention, and vaccination, visit the Kentucky Department for Public Health’s website or contact your healthcare provider. Staying informed and up-to-date with vaccinations is crucial in preventing the spread of measles and protecting public health.
FAQ
What is measles?
Measles is a highly contagious viral illness that can cause serious health complications, including pneumonia, encephalitis, and death. It is transmitted through direct contact with infectious droplets or by airborne spread when an infected person breathes, coughs, or sneezes. Measles can remain infectious in the air and on surfaces for up to two hours after an infected person leaves an area.
What are the symptoms of measles?
Symptoms typically appear 7 to 21 days after exposure and may include fever, cough, runny nose, red eyes, and a rash that usually starts on the face and spreads to the rest of the body.
How is measles transmitted?
Measles is transmitted through direct contact with infectious droplets or by airborne spread when an infected person breathes, coughs, or sneezes. Measles can remain infectious in the air and on surfaces for up to two hours after an infected person leaves an area.
What should I do if I was exposed to measles?
If you stayed at or visited the Hyatt Place in Hamburg between December 31, 2025, and January 2, 2026, and develop symptoms, contact a healthcare provider before visiting a medical facility to prevent further spread of the virus. Vaccination remains the best protection against measles. If you are unvaccinated or not fully vaccinated, consult your healthcare provider about receiving the MMR vaccine.
How can I prevent measles?
Vaccination is the most effective way to prevent measles and its complications. Ensure that you and your family are up-to-date with the MMR vaccine. For more information, visit the Kentucky Department for Public Health’s website or contact your healthcare provider.
Key Features of Measles Exposure
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Location of Exposure | Hyatt Place in Hamburg, Fayette County, Kentucky |
| Exposure Dates | December 31, 2025 – January 2, 2026 |
| Additional Location | Hamburg Panera on January 1, 2026 |
| Traveler’s Vaccination Status | Unvaccinated |
| Symptoms Onset | 7 to 21 days after exposure |
| Best Protection | Vaccination with MMR vaccine |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
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Author: STAFF HERE LEXINGTON KY STAFF
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