Second Measles Case Confirmed in Wisconsin for 2026
February 2, 2026
Contact: DHS Media, 608-266-1683
The Wisconsin Department of Health Services (DHS) along with Public Health Madison Dane County has reported a new case of measles in a Dane County resident. This marks the second case identified in the state this year.
This recent case, contracted through international travel, is unlinked to the previous case in Waukesha County confirmed last week. Due to privacy laws, no further personal or health details will be disclosed. DHS is collaborating with Public Health Madison Dane County to alert those potentially exposed, including coordination with UW-Madison for on-campus exposure sites. Updates about public exposure locations will appear on the DHS Outbreaks and Investigations webpage.
Measles is extremely contagious, spreading easily through the air and remaining infectious for up to two hours after an infected person coughs or sneezes. If exposed and unvaccinated, up to 90% of individuals may contract the virus.
Symptoms typically emerge between 10 to 21 days following exposure, manifesting as:
- Runny nose
- High fever (potentially exceeding 104°F)
- Fatigue
- Cough
- Red, watery eyes, or conjunctivitis (“pink eye”)
- A red rash with raised bumps starting at the hairline and spreading to the arms and legs three to five days after initial symptoms
Severe health complications from measles can include pneumonia, brain damage, and deafness, with hospitalization required for one in four cases in the U.S.
Individuals noticing measles symptoms are advised to remain at home and contact their healthcare provider ahead of visiting to avoid spreading the virus to others.
Prevention is achievable with the measles, mumps, rubella vaccine (MMR), which is 97% effective after two doses. DHS urges Wisconsin residents to verify their vaccination status to ensure protection against measles.
Generally, those born before 1957 are considered immune, while other adults without documented immunity should receive at least one dose of a measles-containing vaccine. Children require two doses. Detailed information on vaccination requirements is available on the DHS measles page.
Vaccination status can be verified through the Wisconsin Immunization Registry, or by consulting a health care provider or local health department.
Unvaccinated individuals can receive the vaccine through their healthcare provider, local clinic, or pharmacy. Assistance in determining necessary vaccines is available from local health departments, and free, confidential help to find a doctor or clinic can be accessed by calling 211. Those who are pregnant, have children under 12 months, or are unable to receive the MMR vaccine should seek advice from their doctor or community clinic.
Further details can be found on the DHS measles webpage. UW-Madison students may contact University Health Services at 608-265-5600.
The investigation is ongoing, and any updates regarding public exposure locations will be disseminated widely and posted on the DHS Outbreaks and Investigations webpage.
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