05/14/2026
Virginia Health Officials Investigating a Measles Case in the Central Region
On Wed, 5/6, the VDH confirmed a case of measles in a school-aged child living in Buckingham. There is now confirmed cases across multiple households, which is indicative of an outbreak.
Those who are up-to-date with the MMR vaccine are highly protected. Two doses of the vaccine provide 97% protection against measles while one dose provides 93% protection.
However, children prior to age 5 may not yet be fully vaccinated with two doses, and infants generally begin the MMR series at age 12months.
Due to assumed circulation of the measles virus with reported multiple cases, VDH is now recommending for the Buckingham area an early dose for infants between 6mon-12mon in addition to the normal schedule, and also consideration of an accelerated schedule for children or those never vaccinated to receive a 2nd dose 28 days after first dose (routine is at 12-15mon and then 4-5yr).
• Infants ages 6 to 11 months are advised to get an early dose of the MMR vaccine. Infants who receive an early dose of MMR vaccine before their first birthday should receive two more doses at the recommended ages and at least 28 days apart.
• Children aged 12 months or older and adults who have not yet been vaccinated or never had measles infection are advised to get an MMR vaccine dose with a second dose at least 28 days after the first dose.
• Children aged 12 months or older who have previously received only one MMR dose are advised to get a second MMR vaccine dose at least 28 days after the first dose.
• Adults who have previously received only one MMR dose should consider a second MMR vaccine dose at least 28 days after the first dose.
We will be hosting MMR vaccine clinics at the Buckingham Health Department:
- 5/14/2026 8:30am-4pm
- 5/15/2026 2:30pm-5:00pm
- 5/18/2026 3-4:30pm
- 5/21/2026 8:30am-4pm
Vaccine clinics are held regularly at all local health departments. These regular clinics are scheduled for Thursdays in Buckingham.
Measles is highly contagious through airborne particles. The first four days prior to rash onset with flu/cold-like symptoms are when many spread illness. It is important to isolate immediately with any flu-like symptoms if unvaccinated and/or had a known exposure and to notify public health.
Again vaccination remains the best protection against measles. Two doses of the vaccine provide 97% protection against measles while one dose provides 93% protection.
If you are uncertain of your vaccine status, please check in with your provider. Parent can check with pediatricians or Request Immunization Record - Immunization.
As well, receiving vaccine, if not already immune, within 72hrs of exposure significantly helps prevent likelihood of infection. Please contact public health immediately if you suspect you have had an exposure and are not immune. Notably, pregnant women and infants
Measles is a very contagious disease caused by a virus that lives in the nose and throat of an infected person.
