In May 2026, the Virginia Department of Health announced an outbreak of measles in Virginia, centered in Buckingham County. Here’s what families need to know.
At a Glance: Measles Outbreak in Central Virginia
- The Virginia Department of Health (VDH) has confirmed a measles outbreak in Buckingham County.
- Children and adults who aren’t fully vaccinated against measles should receive their first or second dose of the MMR (measles, mumps, and rubella) vaccine, including infants who live in outbreak areas.
- As of May 2026, there have been 64 confirmed cases of measles in Virginia in 2026, most of them in Central Virginia.
- The VDH has launched a measles dashboard to track cases and keep Virginia residents updated.
- If you received 2 doses of measles vaccines or were born before 1957, you are protected against measles and do not need to take any further action.
- The MMR vaccine may cause mild side effects such as pain or swelling where the shot was given, low fever, or a non-contagious rash.
- Complications from measles can include lung infection, swelling of the brain, loss of sight or hearing, difficulty breathing, and neurological disorders. In some patients, these complications are fatal.
Understanding Measles in Virginia
As of May 28, 2026, the United States has reported 1,983 confirmed measles cases since the start of the year. There have been 30 new outbreaks reported in 2026, and 93% of the confirmed measles cases are associated with an outbreak. An outbreak is 3 or more related cases. In 2025, large outbreaks caused thousands of measles cases, three of which were fatal.
In Virginia, the Virginia Department of Health (VDH) has confirmed 64 measles cases in Virginia in 2026. The rapid spread of the disease underscores the importance of MMR (measles, mumps, and rubella) vaccine availability, prevention measures, and early detection.
Before the introduction of the measles vaccination program in 1963, the United States experienced significant morbidity and mortality due to measles. Annually, approximately 3 to 4 million people were diagnosed with measles. Of those, 48,000 were hospitalized. About 500 people died every year from measles.
What Are the Symptoms of Measles?
Measles is a highly contagious viral illness that can lead to severe complications. Symptoms typically appear 7-14 days after exposure and include:
- High fever (above 101°F)
- Persistent cough
- Runny nose (coryza)
- Red, watery eyes (conjunctivitis)
- Rash that begins at the hairline and spreads downward
In some cases, complications such as ear infections, pneumonia, and encephalitis (brain inflammation) may occur. If you or a family member experience these symptoms, contact a healthcare provider immediately.
How Does Measles Spread?
Measles is one of the most contagious diseases in the world. If 100 susceptible people are in a room with someone who has measles, 90 out of 100 of them will get measles as well.
Measles spreads through respiratory droplets when an infected person coughs or sneezes. The virus can remain in the air and on surfaces for up to two hours after an infected individual leaves an area. A person infected with measles can transmit the virus up to four days before and after the rash appears.
How Effective Is the MMR Vaccine?
The Measles, Mumps, and Rubella (MMR) vaccine is the most effective way to prevent measles:
- One dose: 93% effective at preventing measles
- Two doses: 97% effective
The CDC recommends that children receive the first dose at 12-15 months and the second dose at 4-6 years. Unvaccinated adults should also receive at least one dose. Vaccination not only protects individuals but also helps prevent outbreaks.
Does the MMR Vaccine Have Dangerous Side Effects?
The MMR vaccine has been administered worldwide for decades. It is safe, effective, and there is no evidence that is causes long-term harm. Like any medical treatment, there is a possibility that it will cause side effects or complications. However, most people who receive the MMR vaccine experience few or no side effects. Side effects that may occur in some people include:
- Soreness or swelling at the site of the shot
- Low fever
- Mild rash, 7-12 days after vaccination (not contagious)
Rare side effects of the MMR vaccine include:
- Fever 103° or higher, 5-12 days after vaccination, sometimes accompanied by febrile seizure (non-fatal)
- Thrombocytopenia (temporary decrease in number of platelets in the body, non-fatal)
- Temporary swelling and pain in joints in women and young children (due to rubella vaccine)
It’s important for parents to remember that, although vaccines can have potential side effects, a measles infection can have serious complications as well. Potential complications of measles include:
- Ear infection
- Pneumonia (lung infection)
- Encephalitis (swelling of the brain)
- Loss of sight or hearing
- Subacute sclerosing panencephalitis or SSPE, up to 7 years after infection (causes neurological deterioration and death)
- Hemorrhagic measles (causes seizures, delirium, difficulty breathing, and bleeding under the skin)
- Blood-clotting disorder
In some cases, measles infection can be fatal. A measles infection during pregnancy can also cause complications, such as:
- Preterm delivery
- Low birth weight
- Miscarriage
Doctors recommend that most families be vaccinated against measles because the risks associated with measles are worse than the risks associated with the MMR vaccine. If you are concerned about vaccine side effects, talk with your doctor or your child’s pediatrician about the potential risks and complications.
Where Can I Get the MMR Vaccine in Charlottesville?
Several healthcare providers in Central Virginia offer the MMR vaccine:
- Blue Ridge Health District Immunization Clinics: Blue Ridge Health District
- Pediatric Associates of Charlottesville: Charlottesville Pediatric Associates
- University of Virginia Health System: UVA Health Measles Information
- CVS and Walgreens Pharmacy: Walk-in vaccinations available
Free and low-cost vaccinations are available through Virginia’s Vaccines for Children (VFC) and Vaccines for Adults (VFA) for those who are eligible. Find a VFC or VFA provider near you through the Virginia Department of Health.
How Can I Protect My Baby From Measles?
The experts at Sentara Martha Jefferson have created a guide to understanding measles specifically for families with babies. Their advice is the best way to protect your family from measles is to ensure that all children and adults in your household are up to date on their vaccinations, including the measles, mumps and rubella (MMR) vaccine.
Of all people, infants are at the highest risk of serious illness, hospitalization and death from measles. Unless there’s an outbreak in their communities, babies can’t receive their first MMR vaccine until 12-15 months. So they rely on others around them to be vaccinated.
What Should I Do If I or Someone in My Family Shows Symptoms?
If you suspect measles infection:
- Stay home & isolate: Avoid contact with others to prevent spreading the virus.
- Call a healthcare provider: Notify your doctor before visiting so they can take precautions.
- Report to health authorities: Contact the Blue Ridge Health District to assist in monitoring cases.
- Virginia residents with additional questions about their potential exposure can call the Virginia Department Health at (804) 363-2704 or email epi_response@vdh.virginia.gov.
Early diagnosis and isolation are critical in preventing further transmission.
Are There Any Recent Measles Cases in Charlottesville?
On May 13, 2026, the Virginia Department of Health confirmed a measles out break in Buckingham County. Potential exposure sites include:
- Buckingham County
- Centra Southside Community Hospital Emergency Department in Farmville
Residents and visitors in Buckingham County should monitor themselves and their children for symptoms. If you live in or have visited Buckingham County, the Virginia Department of Health recommends the MMR vaccine for:
- Infants aged 6 to 11 months
- Children aged 12 months to 18 years old who have not yet been vaccinated or never had measles infection
- Children aged 12 months or older who have previously received only one MMR
- Adults born after 1957 who have not previously been vaccinated or never had measles infection
On May 21, 2026, the Virginia Department of Health launched a Measles Dashboard to track measles cases and exposure sites in Virginia. As of May 29, there have been 64 reported cases of measles in Virginia in 2026, with 11% of these cases requiring hospitalization. More than half of Virginia’s confirmed measles cases in 2026 have been in Central Virginia.
Preventing Measles Spread in Virginia
To reduce the risk of measles in Virginia, follow these key strategies:
- Get vaccinated: Ensure all family members are up to date on MMR vaccine doses.
- Practice good hygiene: Wash hands frequently, cover coughs, and disinfect commonly touched surfaces.
- Stay informed: Follow updates from University of Virginia measles research and the Virginia Department of Health.
- Limit exposure: Avoid close contact with unvaccinated individuals in high-risk settings.
Measles at the University of Virginia
The University of Virginia brings students from around the country and from around the world to learn. Dr. Christopher Holstege says, “All the students entering the University have to have proof they actually got vaccinated against measles. There are exemptions, and one of the exemptions that people have utilized is a religious exemption. Compliance at UVA is exceedingly high.”
Dr. Holstege is the executive director of Student Health and Wellness at the University of Virginia, chief of the division of medical toxicology and a professor of emergency medicine and pediatrics.
Sources and Further Reading
Virginia Department of Health Launches Measles Dashboard Amid Uptick in Measles Cases, Outbreak (VDH)
Measles Cases and Outbreaks (U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention)
Virginia Department of Health Measles Dashboard (VDH)
Virginia Department of Health: Measles Outbreak in Buckingham County (VDH)
Measles, Mumps and Rubella (MMR): The Diseases & Vaccines (CHOP)
For the latest updates, visit the Virginia Department of Health and the CDC Measles Resource Center. You can also find additional health information for Charlottesville parents through CharlottesvilleFamily.
CharlottesvilleFamily Editors are locals who care deeply about family and community. We are almost all parents who serve alongside our readers in the PTO and band boosters, coaching sports teams, helping with the school fun fair and more. Our insider perspective, combined with great research and expert input from our wonderful CharlottesvilleFamily Advisory Panel helps us to provide you with trustworthy advice as you raise the next generation of brilliant and compassionate kids.