Expanding measles situation in Washington state

Actions requested

Be aware, as of February 2, 2026, there have been eight measles cases in Washington residents in multiple counties. Additionally, be aware of a measles case in a Canadian resident that spent time at SEA Airport on January 22, 2026.

• Visit the Washington State Department of Health (WADOH) Measles website for up to date measles cases and potential areas of exposure within Washington state.
• MMR vaccination remains the most important tool for preventing measles.
• For healthcare providers who see patients residing in or visiting Snohomish County, see the WADOH's Interim Pediatric Measles Outbreak Vaccination Recommendations for children and adolescents living in Washington state.
• At this time, there is no recommendation for an early dose of MMR vaccine prior to 12 months of age despite an active measles outbreak in Snohomish County, unless the child will be traveling internationally or to another U.S. area where it is recommended by Public Health due to an active measles outbreak.
• MMR vaccine recommendations may change locally if the measles situation evolves in Washington state.
• Healthcare providers should not discourage families from getting an early second MMR or MMRV dose for their child as long as the minimum interval for the vaccine has been met.

Refer to Measles actions for Healthcare Providers for more details on immediate isolation, notification, testing, and management of patients with suspected measles and verification of immunity status for all patients.