Measles is spreading in Wisconsin: here's what you need to know

Measles is spreading in Wisconsin. Here's what you need to know.

How many cases

Wisconsin has 258 confirmed cases this year, and the US has 3,887.

How it spreads

Measles spreads through the air and can linger up to two hours after a sick person leaves the room. Up to 9 in 10 nearby people who aren't immune will catch it. It is one of the most contagious diseases we know.

What to watch for

Fever, cough, runny nose, and red eyes come first. Three to five days later, a rash spreads from the face down.

Measles is more than a rash

About 1 in 5 unvaccinated people who get measles are hospitalized. It can cause pneumonia, the top cause of measles deaths in young kids, and brain swelling with lasting damage. About 1 to 3 in 1,000 kids who get it die. It can also weaken the immune system for months.

The good news

The MMR vaccine is very safe, and two doses are about 97% effective. Your shots also protect babies too young for the vaccine and people with weak immune systems.

Not sure about your family? Check your records and ask your doctor.

Think it's measles? Call your doctor or ER first, so we can protect others.

I'm an ER doctor. Have a question? Leave it below.

Educational only, not medical advice.

Sources: Wisconsin Department of Health Services (cases as of Oct 6, 2026) and the CDC.

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