Healthcare Advisory: Measles Outbreak in Washington; Be Vigilant
- katiebaker9
- 4 days ago
- 3 min read
Four new cases of measles have been diagnosed in Washington state this week.
The Kittitas County Public Health Department confirmed a measles case in a Central Washington University student, while the Snohomish County Health Department reported three additional cases in local children who were exposed to a contagious family visiting from South Carolina. The three epidemiologically-linked Snohomish County cases constitute an outbreak, indicating that measles is spreading within Washington.
Multiple public exposure locations have been identified in connection with these cases. Dates of potential exposures to contagious cases are Jan. 8-9 (Kittitas) and Jan. 9 and 13 (Snohomish). Secondary cases resulting from these exposures would be expected to have rash onsets between Jan. 15 and Feb. 3.
A full list of measles cases and public exposure locations identified in Washington can be found on the Measles Cases in Washington State section of the Washington State Department of Health Measles page.
ACTIONS REQUESTED
BE ON ALERT for patients with the signs and symptoms of measles:
Fever (≥101°F or 38.3°C), AND
Rash (maculopapular), which typically starts after 2 – 4 days of initial symptoms, appearing on the head/face, then spreading downwards, AND
At least one of the following prodromal symptoms (sometimes called the “3 Cs“):
Cough
Conjunctivitis (red eyes)
Coryza (runny nose)
ASK about potential measles exposures, recent travel, or contact with ill individuals.
WA DOH has created a Suspect Measles Provider Evaluation Worksheet to assist providers who are assessing patients for measles and to collect the information that your Local Health Jurisdiction may ask for.
ISOLATE & MASK any patient suspected of having measles, in a negative pressure room when possible. Measles is a highly infectious viral disease which can be spread through air in waiting rooms and other public spaces.
Follow standard and airborne precautions when evaluating suspected cases, regardless of vaccination status.
IMMEDIATELY NOTIFY Kitsap Public Health District of suspected cases of measles by calling 360-728-2235.
TESTING
Testing for suspected measles cases should be performed at the WA DOH Public Health Laboratories (PHL) to ensure prompt results and early notification.
Providers must work with the Kitsap Public Health District to coordinate testing through PHL.
Collect the following specimens, if testing is approved:
Nasopharyngeal (NP) swab for measles PCR and culture is the preferred specimen.
Most accurate between 0 to 5 days after rash onset.
Urine for measles PCR and culture:
Most accurate between 3 to 10 days after rash onset; may not be positive until >4 days after symptom onset.
In some cases, serum for measles IgM and IgG may be indicated. Please consult with Kitsap Public Health.
WA DOH has updated the MMR Specimen Testing Protocol document that provides instructions for specimen submission and testing at PHL. The document also includes expected turn-around times for results.
VACCINATON
MMR vaccination remains the most important tool for preventing measles infections.
Ensure all patients without evidence of immunity are up to date on MMR vaccine.
Ensure that patients who are planning to travel internationally (regardless of the destination) or domestically (to outbreak areas) are fully vaccinated at least 2 weeks before departure.
Infants under 12 months who are traveling internationally should receive an early dose at 6 through 11 months, another dose at 12-15 months, and a final dose at least 28 days later (typically 4 through 6 years).
Post-exposure prophylaxis (PEP) is available for measles after exposure to a confirmed case. Public Health will work with healthcare providers to identify contacts and coordinate post-exposure prophylaxis.
BACKGROUND
Measles can cause severe health complications, including pneumonia, encephalitis, and death. In 2025, 11% of reported measles cases in the United States were hospitalized.
There were 2,242 laboratory-confirmed measles cases and three deaths reported in the United States in 2025, and 171 cases reported in 2026 as of January 13. In addition to the current Washington outbreak, outbreaks are ongoing in Arizona, South Carolina, and Utah.
RESOURCES
Measles webpage | DOH
Measles Cases and Outbreaks | CDC (updated weekly on Wednesdays)
CONTACTING THE HEALTH DISTRICT
Call: 360-728-2235 and leave a message. Includes reporting notifiable conditions 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. Leave the patient’s name, date of birth and disease.
Fax: 360-813-1168
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