The Georgia Department of Public Health has confirmed another case of measles, bringing the state’s total to seven cases so far in 2026. DPH said the latest case involves an unvaccinated resident of metro Atlanta. At this time, health officials have identified no known travel history or exposure to another person infected with measles. Public health officials are working to identify anyone who may have come into contact with the individual during the period when the person was infectious. Measles is a highly contagious viral illness that spreads through the air when an infected person coughs or sneezes. According to DPH, the virus can remain in the air or on surfaces for as long as two hours after an infected person has left an area. Symptoms generally begin seven to 14 days after exposure and can include a high fever, cough, runny nose and watery eyes. A rash consisting of small red spots typically develops afterward, beginning around the head before spreading to other areas of the body. Health officials are reminding Georgians that vaccination remains the most effective way to prevent measles. The measles, mumps and rubella, or MMR, vaccine is recommended for children in two doses. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommends the first dose between 12 and 15 months of age and the second between ages 4 and 6. For infants between 6 and 11 months old who will be traveling internationally, the CDC recommends an MMR dose before travel, followed by two additional…
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