A confirmed measles case has been reported in Sheridan County, Nebraska, according to the Nebraska Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS). The child, who was vaccinated but tested positive for the disease, may have exposed others at several public locations. DHHS and the Panhandle Public Health District are urging people who visited these locations on specific dates to complete a risk assessment survey.
The first confirmed measles case in Nebraska is believed to have occurred after someone with the virus was exposed by an uninfected individual. This means that more cases may be present in the state, but not yet reported.
Measles testing can take several days, which contributed to the delay in confirming the child’s infection. To minimize the risk of community spread, health experts recommend:
* Isolating yourself from others if symptoms arise
* Contacting your healthcare provider or emergency room before arriving for testing
* Following proper procedures to avoid infecting others
Symptoms of measles include fever, cough, runny nose, and red eyes. However, many people with measles may not display these symptoms immediately.
The Nebraska Department of Health and Human Services emphasizes the importance of getting vaccinated against measles. The MMR vaccine provides about 93-97% protection against the disease, but it does not guarantee immunity if someone is already infected.
Source: https://www.ksnblocal4.com/2025/05/27/confirmed-measles-case-reported-nebraska-panhandle