Kentucky’s measles outbreak continues to grow

Kentucky’s measles outbreak has increased by 10 new cases, according to state data. 

In total the state has now confirmed 29 cases of measles this year, the most seen since 1991, according to the Cabinet for Health and Family Services. Of those, 17 were confirmed in August, according to the state’s measles dashboard. 

An outbreak is defined as three or more related cases by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. 

As of Wednesday, there were the following confirmed cases this year: 

• 14 in Christian County up from 10 a week ago  
• Three in Trigg County up from one a week ago 
• Five in Washington County, up from one a week ago
• One case in Caldwell County 
• One case in Owen County 
• One case in Todd County 
• Four cases in Jessamine County 

All cases from this year are in individuals who are either unvaccinated or their vaccination status is unknown, according to the state’s measles dashboard. There have been no measles deaths this year. 

Measles is extremely contagious and spread through the air from coughs or sneezes, according to the CDC. One infected person can infect nine in 10 unprotected people around them. 

Symptoms include fever, cough, runny nose, red eyes and a rash. The best protection against measles is the measles vaccination, which is generally available at pharmacies and through medical providers. The CDC recommends the measles vaccination series at 12-15 months and then at 4-6 years old.