Wisconsin Confirms 2nd Measles Case Of 2026, This Time In Dane County

DANE COUNTY, WI — Wisconsin health officials have confirmed a second case of measles in the state this year, involving a resident of Dane County, according to the Wisconsin Department of Health Services.

The agency said the individual was exposed to measles during international travel and that the case is not related to a measles case confirmed last week in Waukesha County. Due to privacy laws, no additional personal or medical details were released.

DHS and Public Health Madison and Dane County are working to identify and notify people who may have been exposed to the virus. Officials said they are coordinating closely with the University of Wisconsin–Madison regarding potential on-campus exposure locations.

Measles is a highly contagious viral illness that spreads through the air and can remain airborne for up to two hours after an infected person coughs or sneezes. Health officials say up to 90 percent of unvaccinated people exposed to measles can become infected.

Symptoms typically appear 10 to 21 days after exposure and may include a runny nose, high fever that can exceed 104 degrees, fatigue, cough, red or watery eyes, and a red rash that usually begins at the hairline before spreading to the rest of the body.

DHS warned that measles can lead to serious complications, including pneumonia, brain damage, and deafness. About one in four people who contract measles in the United States require hospitalization, and the illness can be fatal in rare cases.

Anyone experiencing measles symptoms is urged to stay home and contact a health care provider before seeking in-person care so precautions can be taken to prevent further spread.

Health officials emphasized that measles can be prevented through vaccination. Two doses of the measles, mumps, rubella vaccine are about 97 percent effective at preventing infection. DHS is encouraging Wisconsinites to check their vaccination records to ensure they and their families are protected.

In general, people born before 1957 are considered immune. Other adults without documented immunity should have at least one dose of a measles-containing vaccine, while children should receive two doses.

Residents can check their vaccination status through the Wisconsin Immunization Registry, their health care provider, or their local health department. Vaccinations are available through clinics, pharmacies, and local health departments, and free assistance finding care is available by dialing 211.