Updated September 18, 2026
Written in collaboration with Dr. Leah Welty
If you’ve seen recent news about measles cases in Cincinnati, you may be wondering what it means for your family. Two people with confirmed measles were recently treated at Cincinnati Children’s, resulting in a potential exposure in portions of the Emergency Department on September 14, 2026.
The good news is that the MMR vaccine provides excellent protection against measles, and most vaccinated children are well protected. While there is no need to panic, this is a good opportunity to review your child’s vaccination status, understand the symptoms of measles, and know what steps to take if you are concerned about a possible exposure.
Key Takeaways
- The MMR vaccine is highly effective at preventing measles.
- Most vaccinated children are well protected.
- Call your pediatrician if you think your child may have been exposed.
- If measles is a concern, call before bringing your child into the office.
How Well Does the MMR Vaccine Work?
Vaccination remains the best protection against measles. The MMR vaccine protects against measles, mumps, and rubella and has a strong track record of safety and effectiveness.
- 1 dose of MMR: Approximately 93% effective at preventing measles
- 2 doses of MMR: Approximately 97% effective at preventing measles
Most people who receive the recommended MMR vaccine series develop long-lasting protection. While breakthrough infections can occur, they are uncommon.
Not sure whether your child is up to date? Contact Anderson Hills Pediatrics. We can review your child’s immunization history and let you know whether any vaccines are needed.
What Are the Signs of Measles?
One common misconception is that measles begins with a rash. In most cases, early symptoms appear first and may include:
- Fever
- Cough
- Runny nose
- Red or watery eyes
- A rash usually develops several days later, often beginning on the face or around the head before spreading downward across the body. On darker skin tones, the rash may be less noticeably red.
Symptoms most often begin 7 to 14 days after exposure, although they can sometimes take longer to appear. Measles is highly contagious and spreads through the air.
What Should I Do If My Child Was Exposed?
A fever or rash does not automatically mean your child has measles. Many common childhood illnesses can cause similar symptoms.
However, if you believe your child was exposed to measles, especially if they are not fully vaccinated, or if your child develops symptoms that concern you, please call Anderson Hills Pediatrics before coming into the office.
Calling first allows our clinical team to review your child’s symptoms, possible exposure, and vaccination history and determine the safest next step. It also helps protect infants and other patients who may be especially vulnerable to infection.
What If My Baby Is Too Young for the MMR Vaccine?
News about measles can be especially concerning for families with babies who are not yet old enough for routine MMR vaccination or for children who cannot receive certain vaccines. Although this is not currently considered an outbreak and official recommendations have not changed, families interested in an early MMR vaccine for a child 6–11 months old may call our office to discuss whether it may be appropriate.
For our full vaccine schedule, including information on MMR timing, can be found on our Immunizations page.
We’re Here for Cincinnati Families
At Anderson Hills Pediatrics, we’re available to answer questions about your child’s vaccination status, possible symptoms, or concerns about exposure.
If you’re unsure whether your child is up to date on vaccines, worried about symptoms, or think your child may have been exposed to measles, please give us a call. Our pediatric team can help you determine the best next steps for your family.
For additional information, we recommend the following resources:
- Measles Outbreaks: Common Questions & How to Protect Your Child
- Measles: What Parents Need to Know
- Healthychildren.org Podcast – Episode 34 — Measles: Myths, Facts, & What to Know During an Outbreak
This information is provided for general educational purposes and is not a substitute for individualized medical advice. Please contact your child’s healthcare provider with questions about your child’s health.