Maryland Declares Measles Outbreak Across Three Counties as Confirmed Cases Rise to 31

MARYLAND — Maryland health officials are confronting a growing measles outbreak as students return to classrooms across the state, with 31 confirmed cases reported during 2026 and outbreaks formally identified in three counties.

The state has declared outbreaks in St. Mary’s, Carroll and Cecil counties, according to health officials. Twenty-seven of Maryland’s 31 cases have been confirmed since July 15, representing a sharp increase compared with earlier in the year.

Of those 27 recent cases, 13 have been identified in St. Mary’s County, eight in Carroll County, five in Cecil County and one in Charles County. Health officials said all 27 involved people who were unvaccinated.

Four additional cases identified earlier in 2026 were reported in Anne Arundel, Baltimore and Prince George’s counties.

Despite the increase, state officials say there is currently no evidence of widespread community transmission. Most of the recent infections have occurred among household contacts, and authorities have not identified public exposure locations associated with the latest cases.

Maryland Health Secretary Dr. Meena Seshamani said the overall risk remains low for people who are fully vaccinated and urged residents to review their vaccination status.

The timing is particularly significant as tens of thousands of Maryland children return to public and private schools. Measles is highly contagious and can spread quickly among people without immunity, making schools and other crowded environments an important area of attention for health authorities.

Doctors say complications can be particularly serious for young children and people with weakened immune systems.

More than 106,000 MMR vaccinations have been administered in Maryland so far this year, including more than 24,000 since July 1, according to the reporting. Local health departments are also providing vaccination clinics.

The outbreak represents a significant change from Maryland’s recent history. Earlier in 2026, cases remained relatively isolated, with the state benefiting from historically high vaccination coverage. The rapid increase since mid-July has now put health officials on heightened alert as the new school year begins.