2 Measles Cases Confirmed in Massachusetts

State health officials warn of potential exposures after recent out-of-state travel

Feb. 27, 2026 at 8:49pm

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The Massachusetts Department of Public Health (DPH) has announced two confirmed cases of measles in the state. One case involves a school-aged person exposed and diagnosed out of state, while the other is an adult resident of Greater Boston who recently returned from international travel. Health officials say the second case likely resulted in exposures to others at several locations visited.

Why it matters

Measles is a highly contagious respiratory virus that can cause serious illness, especially in unvaccinated individuals. These cases underscore the ongoing threat of measles outbreaks, even in areas with generally high vaccination rates like Massachusetts.

The details

The two measles cases were reported to the DPH on Friday. One case involved a school-aged person who was exposed and diagnosed outside of Massachusetts, while the other case was an adult resident of the Greater Boston area who had recently returned from international travel. The adult case is believed to have visited several locations where exposures to others likely occurred.

  • The two measles cases were confirmed by the Massachusetts Department of Public Health on February 27, 2026.

The players

Massachusetts Department of Public Health

The state agency responsible for monitoring and responding to public health issues in Massachusetts.

Dr. Robbie Goldstein

The Public Health Commissioner for the Massachusetts Department of Public Health.

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What they’re saying

“Our first two measles cases in 2026 demonstrate the impact that the measles outbreaks, nationally and internationally, can have here at home. Fortunately, thanks to high vaccination rates, the risk to most Massachusetts residents remains low.”

— Dr. Robbie Goldstein, Public Health Commissioner (WPRI.com)

“Measles is the most contagious respiratory virus and can cause life-threatening illness. These cases are a reminder of the need for health care providers and local health departments to remain vigilant for cases so that appropriate public health measures can be rapidly employed to prevent spread in the state.”

— Dr. Robbie Goldstein, Public Health Commissioner (WPRI.com)

What’s next

Health officials are working to identify and notify any individuals who may have been exposed to the virus in order to prevent further spread of measles in the state.

The takeaway

This incident highlights the ongoing threat of measles outbreaks, even in highly vaccinated populations, and the importance of maintaining vigilance and robust public health measures to quickly contain any potential spread of this highly contagious disease.