News Summary
The Lexington-Fayette County Health Department has confirmed four new measles cases, raising the total to eight infections connected to an outbreak in Fayette and Woodford Counties. The affected individuals are in quarantine, ensuring there is no additional risk to the public. The outbreak began on June 30, and health officials emphasize vaccination as key in preventing further spread, amid declining vaccination rates in the state.
Fayette County Reports New Measles Cases Linked to Woodford County Outbreak
The Lexington-Fayette County Health Department has confirmed four new cases of measles, bringing the total number of confirmed infections associated with an outbreak in both Fayette and Woodford Counties to eight. All new cases are linked to a household outbreak, and the affected individuals have been under quarantine since the initial case was reported, posing no additional risk to the public.
The outbreak began with a single confirmed case in Fayette County on June 30, 2025. At that time, Kentucky already had five reported measles cases, four of which were traced back to Woodford County. Subsequently, an unrelated case was confirmed in Todd County on June 27, raising the statewide total for 2025 to eleven cases.
Details of the Outbreak
According to Dr. Steve Davis, the medical director of the Lexington-Fayette County Health Department, Fayette County still has at least one active measles case, but exposure events have been limited. Individuals identified as being affected by the outbreak have been self-isolating for approximately two weeks. This measure has been taken to contain the spread of the virus.
The Health Department urges anyone who suspects they may have been exposed to measles to contact them or their healthcare provider. Symptoms of measles include high fever, a dry cough, runny nose, sore throat, inflamed eyes, and a characteristic red blotchy rash that usually starts on the face. The rash typically appears three to five days after initial symptoms develop. Additionally, Koplik’s spots, which are tiny white spots with bluish-white centers, may be present in the mouth and inner cheeks.
Measles Information
Measles is a highly contagious disease that spreads through respiratory droplets. These droplets can remain suspended in the air for up to two hours after an infected person leaves the area, making it incredibly easy for the virus to infect others. Up to 90% of unprotected individuals exposed to the virus can become infected.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has reported more than 1,200 measles cases across various states in the United States this year, linking this spike in cases to recent outbreaks in other countries as well. Kentucky’s first confirmed case of measles in 2025 occurred in February, followed by another case in March, which was associated with a traveling child.
Vaccination Rates and Public Health Response
There is growing concern in Kentucky regarding vaccination rates, which have declined in recent years. Currently, only 86.9% of kindergartners in the state are reported as fully vaccinated against measles, considerably below the national average of 93%. Consequently, health officials emphasize that vaccination is the safest and most effective way to prevent measles and its associated complications.
In response to the outbreak and declining vaccination rates, health officials are actively encouraging parents to ensure that their children are fully vaccinated. Vaccination not only protects the individual but also plays a fundamental role in community health by helping to prevent the spread of contagious diseases like measles.
The situation continues to evolve as health authorities monitor the outbreak closely and provide updates on public health recommendations. As the health department investigates further cases and potential exposures, community members are reminded to remain vigilant and informed regarding their vaccination status.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Measles Outbreak Expands in Lexington Area
HHS Secretary Dismisses Vaccine Advisory Panel
University of Kentucky Students Volunteer at Free Clinic for Homeless
Health Secretary Faces Backlash Over Budget Cuts and Vaccination Views
HHS Launches Controversial Initiative to Investigate Autism Causes
First Measles-Related Death in the U.S. Since 2015
Winter Chill Brings Respiratory Illness Surge in Kentucky
Additional Resources
- Kentucky News Source
- Wikipedia: Measles
- WKYT News
- Google Search: Kentucky measles outbreak
- Fox 56 News
- Google Scholar: measles vaccination rates
- WHAS 11 News
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Measles
- WDRB News
- Google News: Kentucky measles exposure
Author: STAFF HERE LEXINGTON KY STAFF
LEXINGTON STAFF WRITER The LEXINGTON STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HERELexingtonKY.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Lexington, Fayette County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Woodland Art Fair, Crave Food and Music Festival, and Railbird Festival. Our coverage extends to key organizations like Commerce Lexington and Blue Grass Community Foundation, plus leading businesses in education, manufacturing, and technology that power the local economy such as University of Kentucky, Toyota Motor Manufacturing, and Lexmark. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREBowlingGreen.com and HERELouisville.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Kentucky's dynamic landscape.
