Oregon Health Authority Reports Rising Measles Cases Amid Wastewater Detection
The Oregon Health Authority has reported a significant increase in measles cases, with 13 cases confirmed since the start of 2026. This rise is notable as it approaches the peak outbreak year of 2024, which saw 31 cases. The majority of the recent cases involve individuals who were either unvaccinated or had an unknown vaccination status. The state epidemiologist, Dr. Dean Sidelinger, highlighted that measles has been detected in wastewater in counties without reported cases, indicating a broader spread than initially apparent. Recent potential exposure sites include a Portland store, a hospital, and two restaurants in Gresham and West Linn. Although there is no ongoing risk at these locations, the presence of measles in wastewater suggests the disease is more widespread. 
