Measles comes to Alabama

August 25, 2025 - MONTGOMERY, AL. - The Alabama Department of Public Health (ADPH) has confirmed the state's first case of measles in more than two decades, renewing calls for vigilance and vaccination amid rising global travel and declining immunization rates in some communities.

According to ADPH, the infected child-under five years old and unvaccinated-contracted measles while traveling outside the United States. The child resides in North Alabama and did not attend daycare or school, limiting potential exposure. Health officials have notified all entities involved in the child's care and confirmed that the child's siblings are vaccinated and symptom-free.

"This is a serious reminder that measles is just a plane ride away," said Dr. Karen Landers, ADPH's Chief Medical Officer. "We urge parents to ensure their children are up to date on their measles vaccinations. Measles is highly contagious and can spread before symptoms even appear."

A Preventable Disease Returns

Measles, once declared eliminated in the United States in 2000, has reemerged in pockets across the country due to international travel and declining vaccination rates. Alabama had not recorded a confirmed case since 2002, making this incident a stark wake-up call for public health officials and families alike.

The virus is a serious respiratory illness that lives in the mucus of the nose and throat of infected individuals. It spreads easily through coughing, sneezing, or contact with contaminated surfaces. Infected individuals can transmit the virus up to four days before symptoms appear, and those with weakened immune systems may remain contagious for longer.

Symptoms typically begin 7 to 14 days after exposure and follow a recognizable pattern: fever, cough, runny nose, and watery or red eyes, followed by a distinctive rash. Complications can include ear infections, pneumonia, and encephalitis-a potentially fatal brain inflammation.

"There is no specific antiviral treatment for measles," Dr. Landers emphasized. "Supportive care-fluids, rest, and fever management-is the best we can offer. That's why prevention through vaccination is absolutely critical."

MMR Vaccine: Safe, Effective, and Widely Available

The cornerstone of measles prevention is the MMR vaccine, which protects against measles, mumps, and rubella. Children typically receive two doses: the first between 12 and 15 months of age, and the second between 4 and 6 years. In outbreak scenarios or for international travel, infants as young as 6 months may receive an early dose.

According to ADPH, the MMR vaccine is 99 percent effective in preventing measles after the second dose. Vaccines are available at pediatricians' offices and county health departments statewide.

"Getting the MMR vaccine is far safer than getting the disease," Dr. Landers said. "We want parents to understand that vaccination not only protects their child, but also helps safeguard vulnerable individuals in the community-infants, cancer patients, and those with compromised immune systems."

Public Health Response and Community Impact

ADPH has activated its infectious disease protocols, including contact tracing and public notification. While the child did not attend school or daycare, health officials are monitoring the situation closely to prevent further spread.

Local hospitals and clinics have been alerted, and ADPH is working with regional health departments to reinforce vaccination outreach. The department's website offers detailed guidance for parents, including symptoms to watch for and steps to take if exposure is suspected.

Parents are urged to contact their healthcare provider immediately if they believe their child may have measles or has been exposed-especially if the child is unvaccinated, immunocompromised, or under one year of age.

Historical Context and National Trends

Measles outbreaks have surged globally in recent years, often linked to international travel and vaccine hesitancy. In 2019, the U.S. saw its highest number of cases in nearly three decades, with outbreaks concentrated in communities with low vaccination coverage.

Alabama's long stretch without a confirmed case reflects strong public health infrastructure and historically high immunization rates. However, officials warn that even one case can trigger a cascade of infections if vaccination coverage drops.

"Measles is not just a childhood illness-it's a community threat," said Dr. Landers. "We must remain vigilant, especially as travel increases and misinformation about vaccines persists."

What Parents and Caregivers Should Know

ADPH recommends the following steps for families:

• Check vaccination records: Ensure children have received both doses of the MMR vaccine.

• Consult your doctor: If your child is traveling internationally or may have been exposed, ask about early vaccination options.

• Watch for symptoms: Fever, cough, runny nose, red eyes, and rash may indicate measles. Seek medical care immediately.

• Protect vulnerable individuals: Infants, cancer patients, and immunocompromised individuals rely on community immunity to stay safe.

For more information, parents can visit http://www.alabamapublichealth.gov/immunization/measles.html or contact their local health department.

A Call to Action

As Alabama confronts its first measles case in over 20 years, public health officials are urging residents to take proactive steps to protect their families and communities. Vaccination remains the most powerful tool in preventing outbreaks and ensuring that measles does not regain a foothold in the state.

"This case is a reminder-not a cause for panic," Dr. Landers said. "But it's also a call to action. We have the tools to prevent measles. Now we need the commitment."