11-03-2025
Two probable measles cases reported in Oklahoma
OKLAHOMA CITY (KFOR) — On Tuesday, the Oklahoma State Department of Health said two probable measles cases have been reported in Oklahoma.
According to OSDH, the cases are being reported to the CDC as probable cases based on the patients' reported exposure connected to the Texas and New Mexico outbreak and reported symptoms consistent with measles.
The cases fall under the CDC's definition of probable cases since the individuals show symptoms consistent with the national standard surveillance definition, but lack a confirmed test result or link to lab confirmed case.
News 4 reached out to OSDH to ask where in the state the two cases were reported, but was told by the department that they would not be releasing any geographic details since they don't pose a public health risk and want to protect patient privacy.
'These cases highlight the importance of being aware of measles activity as people travel or host visitors,' said Kendra Dougherty, Director of Infectious Disease Prevention and Response at OSDH. 'When people know they have exposure risk and do not have immunity to measles, they can exclude themselves from public settings for the recommended duration to eliminate the risk of transmission in their community.'
OSDH says Bartlesville teacher does not have measles despite diagnosis
OSDH also provided the following information about measles vaccinations, and what to do in the event of measles exposure:
Measles can be prevented with an MMR vaccine. The vaccine is recommended for children at 12 to 15 months of age and again at four to six years of age. Two doses of MMR vaccine are about 97% effective at preventing measles, and one dose is about 93% effective.
If an individual has known exposure to someone with measles and they are not immune through vaccination or prior infection, they are recommended to:
Consult with a health care provider to determine if post-exposure prophylaxis is recommended
Exclude themselves from public settings for 21 days unless symptoms develop
If symptoms develop, individuals should stay away from public areas until five days after the rash started
Individuals seeking health care are advised to call ahead to their health care provider and let them know their symptoms and exposure concerns. This will help limit exposure within the healthcare setting.
Per Oklahoma Administrative Code (OAC) 310:515, measles is an immediately notifiable reportable disease. If a health care provider, laboratory or hospital suspects, tests, or diagnoses an individual with measles, the OSDH should be notified immediately. The OSDH will work with the health care provider on testing recommendations.
Oklahoma State Department of Health
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