Kentucky Health Officials Confirm Adult Measles Case in the State

Concerns have been growing across the nation as a measles outbreak has spread across portions of Texas and New Mexico. Now the virus has been confirmed in an adult in Kentucky.

A Confirmed Case of Measles in a Kentucky Adult

The Kentucky Department for Public Health (KDPH) and the Franklin County Health Department have confirmed a case of measles in an adult Kentucky resident. They say the resident traveled outside of the country recently.

The Search Is On for Anyone Who May Have Had Contact with the Infected Person

Health officials are working to contact anyone who may have come been infected with the measles virus. The infected adult recently visited a Planet Fitness location in Frankfort, Kentucky, located at 101 Allen Way on Monday, February 17th.

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Measles Virus is Airborne and Highly Contagious

Measles is an airborne viral infection that can survive for up to two hours after an infected individual is gone. The virus is highly contagious and early symptoms take 8-12 days to develop after exposure.

Symptoms of Measles Take 8 - 12 Days to Develop

Symptoms of the measles virus include a high fever, runny nose, cough, and watery eyes. Additionally, measles is most commonly known to cause a rash. The measles rash typically appears around 3-5 days after the onset of the other symptoms.

“Measles is one of the most contagious viruses in the world,” said KDPH Commissioner Dr. Steven Stack. “Fortunately, measles can be prevented with the measles, mumps and rubella (MMR) vaccine, which is safe and effective. Vaccines are an essential tool to keep children and adults safe and healthy.”

Measles Cases Around the Globe are On the Rise

There has been a significant increase in measles cases across the world, including here in the United States. There have been three measles outbreaks in the U.S. so far in 2025, and most recently, an unvaccinated child has died from the virus. According to the report, this is the first measles related death in the country since 2015.

What To Do If You Need Medical Care and Suspect You Have Been Infected

Experts say that if you are presenting symptoms of the measles virus that you should alert your healthcare provider before you go to their office to help ensure others are not exposed to the virus.

[Source: Kentucky Cabinet for Health and Family Services]