Health officials in Oregon announced on Wednesday that individuals who visited the emergency department of Kaiser Permanente Sunnyside Medical Center over the weekend might have come into contact with measles.
This potential exposure is associated with a newly identified measles case in Clackamas County, marking the second instance reported in the county this year, as stated by the Oregon Health Authority. The first case for 2026 was confirmed earlier this month.
Measles is known as one of the most contagious viruses, spreading through the air when an infected person coughs or sneezes. It’s worth noting that virus particles can remain airborne for up to two hours after someone infected leaves a location.
Anyone who was at the emergency department at Kaiser’s Sunnyside facility, located at 10180 S.E. Sunnyside Road, between 11:28 a.m. and 1:53 p.m. on January 26 should consider themselves possibly exposed, according to health officials.
Those who were present during that timeframe are advised to inform their doctor about the potential measles exposure. This way, the doctor can assess their immunity based on vaccination history and other relevant factors.
This recent case brings the total number of confirmed measles infections in Oregon for 2026 to four. The initial three cases involved unvaccinated adults, two of which were in Linn County. It’s not entirely clear if the latest case also involves someone who is unvaccinated.
Symptoms of measles generally manifest seven to 21 days after exposure, starting with a fever, cough, runny nose, and red eyes, followed by a rash that usually begins on the face and spreads elsewhere.
While many individuals recover from measles, the virus can lead to severe complications, such as pneumonia or swelling of the brain, and in some cases, may even be fatal. Infants and those with weakened immune systems are particularly at risk.
On a broader scale, measles cases have been increasing nationally. The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reported that 2025 saw the highest level of measles spread in over 30 years, with 2,144 confirmed cases, including three fatalities.
In contrast, Oregon reported only one confirmed measles case last year, but 31 infections were recorded in 2024 according to CDC data.
Officials emphasize that vaccination is the best defense against measles, with two doses of the measles-mumps-rubella vaccine offering about 97% effectiveness in preventing infection.
They also advised those experiencing symptoms to take necessary precautions. If anyone suspects they have measles, especially following potential exposure, they should avoid arriving unannounced at a medical facility. Instead, it’s crucial to call ahead so that staff can prepare to minimize any risk in waiting areas.
