Measles cases mount across three states

Measles cases are being reported across Wisconsin, Illinois and Kentucky. Wisconsin health officials confirmed infections in six counties since August and urged residents to watch for symptoms and contact a health care provider if they become ill. Illinois has recorded 23 cases in 2026, including 16 tied to an outbreak in Douglas and Moultrie counties; officials say the overall risk remains low but are promoting vaccination and monitoring possible exposure sites. Kentucky’s statewide total reached 67, including 63 cases in the ongoing outbreak, with seven hospitalizations and no reported deaths; most cases involve people whose vaccination status is unknown or who are unvaccinated. Health officials in the affected states advise people to check their MMR vaccination records and contact a provider or local health department if they may have been exposed or develop symptoms.