A Bucks County resident has tested positive for measles, the Health Department announced Monday.
The individual, an adult whose vaccination status is unclear, recently traveled to an area of central Pennsylvania that is experiencing an outbreak. The individual is no longer contagious, according to the Bucks County Health Department.
The Health Department has notified health care providers whose offices the individual is known to have visited. Those providers will contact patients who may have been exposed to the virus.
"Given the ongoing measles outbreak in parts of Pennsylvania, it is reasonable to expect additional cases may be reported here in Bucks County," Bucks County Health Department Director Dr. David Damsker said in a statement.
Damsker noted that vaccination rates across Bucks County are generally high, helping prevent further transmission and reduce the severity of infections.
Pennsylvania has confirmed 1,505 measles cases across 45 counties so far in 2026, including 290 hospitalizations and six deaths, according to the latest data from the state Department of Health.
Health officials strongly recommend that parents follow the routine immunization schedule and ensure children are fully vaccinated. The measles, mumps and rubella (MMR) vaccine is typically given in two doses — first at 12 to 15 months of age and again between 4 and 6 years old — and is considered safe and highly effective.
Infants younger than 12 months are not routinely eligible for the vaccine and are not fully protected. However, infants 6 to 11 months old should receive an early dose before international travel. Families planning travel outside the United States or to areas experiencing outbreaks are advised to consult their child’s doctor at least two weeks before departure.
The Health Department said people are generally considered immune if they were born before 1957, previously had measles, or received two doses of a measles-containing vaccine, usually the MMR vaccine. Those unsure of their status should check vaccination records or contact their health care provider.
Individuals who have received only one dose are considered at low risk but should speak with their provider about completing the second dose.
If you are protected from measles, you do not have to do anything; MMR vaccines are extremely effective at preventing measles, health experts say.
Medical professionals added that those who are unvaccinated, pregnant and not immune, immunocompromised, or caring for infants under 12 months should contact their health care provider as soon as possible for guidance. Because measles is contagious from four days before to four days after a rash appears, officials advise unvaccinated people who may have been exposed to wear a mask in indoor public settings and around unvaccinated individuals for 3 weeks following exposure.
Anyone who develops symptoms consistent with measles should immediately contact their doctor and inform them of the possible exposure before seeking in-person care. Pennsylvania residents should notify the state health department at 877-724-3258.
Measles is a highly contagious virus that spreads through the air when an infected person coughs, sneezes or talks. The virus can linger in the air for up to two hours after an infected person leaves the area.
Early symptoms include fever, runny nose, cough and red, watery eyes, followed by a rash. Measles can cause serious short- and long-term health problems including pneumonia and brain swelling, with nearly 20 percent of people who contract measles being hospitalized.
The Bucks County Department of Health provides immunizations for residents who are uninsured, underinsured, or covered by medical assistance. For locations or to schedule an appointment, visit buckscounty.gov
Local pharmacies including CVS and Walmart also offer no-cost MMR vaccinations.
Pennsylvanians can stay up to date on confirmed measles cases and vaccination efforts at pa.gov/measles.
