Thank you to all that joined us for the lunch and learn webinar hosted on Thursday, February 12, 2026, that provided an overview of the immunization recommendations and include a presentation specific to measles updates in Maine.
Slides from the Immunization Recommendations & Measles: What You Need to Know Lunch & Learn Webinar:
On February 5, 2026, the Maine Department of Health and Human Services’ Center for Disease Control and Prevention (Maine CDC) confirmed one case of measles. This individual is an adult from Penobscot County who had recently traveled to a state with measles cases. This individual was infectious from January 28 through February 5. Potentially exposed individuals should check their measles immunization status and monitor for symptoms.
Those who are not immunized or do not know their measles immunization status should get vaccinated with at least one dose of measles, mumps, rubella (MMR) vaccine to protect from subsequent exposures.
Maine clinicians should increase surveillance for rash illness suggestive of measles to rapidly identify potential cases and prevent the spread of disease.
The best protection against measles is vaccination.
Providers who suspect measles in a patient should contact the Maine CDC immediately at 1-800-821-5821 for consultation, expedited transportation, and testing of appropriate samples, and questions about infection control practices.
For more details please see Maine health advisory notice
As of February 12, 2026, 910 confirmed measles cases have been reported across 24 jurisdictions, including Maine.
So far in 2026, five outbreaks have been reported, with 90% of cases linked to outbreaks. For comparison, in 2025, there were 2,280 confirmed measles cases reported in the United States, with 49 outbreaks. Nearly 89% of cases were outbreak associated.
CDC continues to monitor measles activity nationwide and reports confirmed cases and outbreaks as jurisdictions notify CDC.
Flu activity in Maine remains high; both the A and B strains are currently circulating. In past years we have seen flu cases up until May and remind providers that it is not too late to vaccinate against the flu. We urge providers to continue recommending the flu vaccine to individuals six months and older. Some children may need two doses to be fully vaccinated. It takes about two weeks to become fully effective. It is important to keep this in mind if you or your patients have upcoming travel plans. For flu activity in Maine as of February 12, 2026, please see Maine's Weekly Influenza Surveillance Report.
If you have any questions, please contact the Maine Immunization Program at: Main Line: (207) 287-3746 ImmPact Helpdesk: (207) 287-3006 / Support/Education: (207) 287-9972
