TN Dept. of Health confirms measles outbreak, all 6 patients unvaccinated – WBIR
2025-04-25T15:39:00Z
The Tennessee Department of Health confirms a measles outbreak with six unvaccinated cases.
The Tennessee Department of Health confirms a measles outbreak with six unvaccinated cases.
NASHVILLE, Tenn. — The Tennessee Department of Health confirmed a measles outbreak in the state Friday.
The Department of Health said there are six confirmed measles cases in the state. The Centers for Disease Control defines an outbreak as occurring when a virus spreads among three or more individuals who share a connection with each other.
According to the Department of Health, there are two cases in the mid-Cumberland region and four in the upper Cumberland region. All six patients were unvaccinated, according to the department. Four patients are between 5 to 17 years old, one patient is between the ages of 18 and 49, and the final patient is over 50 years old, according to the Department of Health’s data.
The first case was confirmed on March 17. Three cases were confirmed between March 28 and March 31. The final two cases were confirmed on April 14.
The cases are the first confirmed case of measles in the state since 2019, and it came amid multiple reported outbreaks across the nation.
According to the Department of Health, measles is a highly contagious viral infection that causes a red, blotchy rash. The virus usually affects babies and young children and can cause serious illness requiring hospitalization.
Symptoms of measles usually occur between 7 and 14 days after infection. Those symptoms include rash, high fever, watery eyes, runny nose and dry cough. If you think you or your child was exposed or has symptoms, the Department of Health recommends isolating at home and contacting your healthcare provider.
The best way to prevent measles is to be vaccinated with the MMR vaccine. Children should get their first dose between 12 and 15 months old. The second dose should be given between the ages of 4 and 6.
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