Jessamine County, Kentucky, January 16, 2026
Kentucky health officials confirmed a measles case in an unvaccinated individual from Jessamine County following exposure to an infectious traveler. Symptoms include fever and rash. Health officials advise monitoring for symptoms and encourage vaccination as the best preventive measure. This incident is part of a concerning trend of rising measles cases in the country.
Measles Case Reported in Jessamine County, Kentucky
Frankfort, Kentucky – Kentucky health officials have confirmed the state’s first measles case of 2026 in an unvaccinated resident of Jessamine County. The individual was exposed to the virus after an infectious out-of-state traveler visited Fayette County between December 31, 2025, and January 2, 2026. This exposure has resulted in community cases that were first announced by the Lexington-Fayette County Health Department on January 9. This incident is separate from previous exposures in Grant County between December 28-30, 2025, linked to a different out-of-state visitor.
Symptoms and Transmission
Measles is a highly contagious respiratory virus that spreads through the air when an infected person coughs or sneezes. Symptoms typically appear 7 to 14 days after exposure and include fever, cough, runny nose, red eyes, and a rash that usually starts on the face and spreads to the rest of the body. The virus can remain airborne for up to two hours after the infected person leaves the area.
Public Health Response
Health officials are investigating additional community exposures related to this case. Individuals who may have been exposed are advised to monitor for symptoms for 21 days after potential exposure. If symptoms develop, they should contact their healthcare provider. Vaccination remains the best protection against measles. The MMR (measles, mumps, and rubella) vaccine is recommended for children and adults who have not been vaccinated.
Background
Measles was declared eliminated in the United States in 2000, but recent years have seen a resurgence in cases. In 2025, the U.S. reported 2,144 measles cases across 44 states, the highest number since 1991. Declining vaccination rates have contributed to this increase.
Preventive Measures
Health officials urge the public to ensure they are up-to-date with the MMR vaccine to protect themselves and their communities from measles. Good health habits, such as frequent handwashing, covering coughs and sneezes, and staying home when sick, are also recommended to prevent the spread of infectious diseases.
Weather Information
As of January 16, 2026, the weather in Frankfort, Kentucky, is mostly cloudy with a high of 43°F (6°C) and a low of 29°F (-2°C).
Frequently Asked Questions
What is measles?
Measles is a highly contagious respiratory virus that spreads through the air when an infected person coughs or sneezes. Symptoms include fever, cough, runny nose, red eyes, and a rash that usually starts on the face and spreads to the rest of the body. The virus can remain airborne for up to two hours after the infected person leaves the area.
How is measles transmitted?
Measles is transmitted through the air when an infected person coughs or sneezes. The virus can remain airborne for up to two hours after the infected person leaves the area, making it highly contagious.
What are the symptoms of measles?
Symptoms of measles typically appear 7 to 14 days after exposure and 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 can I protect myself from measles?
Vaccination is the best protection against measles. The MMR (measles, mumps, and rubella) vaccine is recommended for children and adults who have not been vaccinated. Health officials also recommend good health habits, such as frequent handwashing, covering coughs and sneezes, and staying home when sick, to prevent the spread of infectious diseases.
What should I do if I think I have been exposed to measles?
If you believe you have been exposed to measles and develop symptoms, contact your healthcare provider. Health officials advise individuals who may have been exposed to monitor for symptoms for 21 days after potential exposure.
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Location | Jessamine County, Kentucky |
| Exposure Period | December 31, 2025 – January 2, 2026 |
| Symptoms | Fever, cough, runny nose, red eyes, rash |
| Transmission | Airborne; can remain suspended for up to two hours |
| Preventive Measure | MMR vaccine |
| Public Health Advisory | Monitor for symptoms for 21 days after potential exposure; contact healthcare provider if symptoms develop |
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