Measles

Measles is a disease that can spread very quickly and make some people severely ill. Measles has been identified in Nebraska.  No cases have been reported in Lancaster County at this time.

Fast Facts About Measles

Measles is in Nebraska. In 2025, the state reported its first measles cases since 2017. One case was in Sheridan County (May) and most recently, one case was in Platte County (12/30).  Measles continues to spread in the U.S. with more than two thousand confirmed cases in 2025. The most recent data is available on the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s (CDC) measles website.

Residents are urged to check their vaccination status to make sure they have protection against the disease.

To check vaccination status:

• Review vaccination records in the Nebraska State Immunization Information System or contact your health care provider.
• If you’re not finding your records, consult with your health care provider or pharmacist about next steps.
  
  

Vaccination is the most effective way to avoid getting measles. Studies show that two doses of measles, mumps and rubella (MMR) vaccine are about 97% effective against measles and that protection lasts a lifetime. Most people receive MMR vaccine as a child. The CDC recommends children receive two doses of the vaccine. The first dose is recommended at ages 12 to 15 months and the second dose at ages 4 to 6 years. A person has a high level of protection against measles if they’ve had two doses of the MMR vaccine or were born before 1957.

Those most at risk of getting measles are people who have had no doses of MMR vaccine or who have not had the measles. If you are not current on your MMR vaccine, talk to your health care provider or pharmacist about getting vaccinated.