Case of Measles Confirmed in Rhode Island

State health officials urge vaccination as preventative measure

Apr. 19, 2026 at 3:08am

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A translucent, ghostly X-ray photograph showing the intricate structure of human lungs, conveying the clinical and internal nature of the measles virus and its effects on respiratory health.An X-ray view of the human lungs reveals the internal impact of the measles virus, a highly contagious respiratory disease that can lead to serious complications.Providence Today

A case of measles has been confirmed in a man in his 40s in Providence County, Rhode Island. The patient recently returned from an international trip and visited a local treatment center and bakery, prompting health officials to identify and contact anyone who may have been exposed. Vaccination is the best way to prevent measles, and health officials are encouraging parents and guardians to ensure their children are vaccinated.

Why it matters

Measles is a highly contagious respiratory disease that can cause serious illness, with complications occurring in nearly 30% of cases. This case highlights the importance of vaccination, especially as there are growing national concerns about a resurgence in measles due to declining vaccination rates.

The details

The patient visited the Atmed Treatment Center on April 15, where he was tested for measles. He is now recovering at home. Health officials are working to identify and contact anyone who may have been exposed, including those who visited Panadería El Quetzal on Hartford Avenue in Providence on April 15 between 4:30 p.m. and 6:30 p.m.

  • The patient recently returned from an international trip.
  • The patient visited the Atmed Treatment Center on April 15.
  • The patient visited Panadería El Quetzal on April 15 between 4:30 p.m. and 6:30 p.m.

The players

Rhode Island Department of Health

The state health agency that confirmed the measles case and is working to identify and contact anyone who may have been exposed.

Jerry Larkin, MD

The Director of Health for the Rhode Island Department of Health, who stated that measles is almost entirely preventable through vaccination.

Atmed Treatment Center

The healthcare facility where the patient was tested for measles.

Panadería El Quetzal

The bakery in Providence that the patient visited, where health officials are asking anyone who was there on April 15 between 4:30 p.m. and 6:30 p.m. to contact them.

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What they’re saying

“Measles is almost entirely preventable through vaccination.”

— Jerry Larkin, MD, Director of Health, Rhode Island Department of Health

“Any parent or guardian who has a child at home who is older than a year old and has not been vaccinated against measles should talk to their child's healthcare professional.”

— Jerry Larkin, MD, Director of Health, Rhode Island Department of Health

What’s next

Health officials are urging anyone who may have been exposed to the measles case to contact their healthcare provider and monitor for symptoms.

The takeaway

This measles case highlights the importance of vaccination, especially as declining vaccination rates have led to growing concerns about a resurgence of the highly contagious disease nationwide. Ensuring children are up-to-date on their measles vaccinations is crucial to preventing the spread of this potentially serious illness.