Maine Reports First Measles Case Since 2019, Public Exposure Warning Issued
Maine health officials have confirmed the state's first measles case since 2019, with potential public exposure in Penobscot County. The Maine Center for Disease Control and Prevention announced that an adult from the county tested positive after traveling to a state with active measles cases. The individual was infectious from January 28 to February 5, 2026. Health officials have identified two locations where exposure may have occurred: Saint Joseph Hospital emergency department in Bangor and Hill View Mini Barns in Etna. People who visited these locations during the specified times are advised to monitor for symptoms for 21 days. Measles is a highly contagious viral illness that spreads through coughs and sneezes, with symptoms including fever, cough, runny nose, red eyes, and a rash. Vaccination remains the most effective protection, with two doses of the MMR vaccine being about 97% effective. 
