RIDOH Confirms First Measles Case in Over a Year, Warns About Possible Exposure at Local Restaurant
The Rhode Island Department of Health (RIDOH) has confirmed a case of measles in the state after more than a year without any reported incidents.
This recent case involves a man in his 40s from Providence County who had traveled internationally and returned to Rhode Island on April 13. After visiting Atmed Treatment Center on April 15, he was tested for measles and is currently recovering at home. The last time Rhode Island reported a measles case was back in January 2025.
Potential Exposure
Additionally, customers and staff at Panadería El Quetzal, located at 445 Hartford Ave., Providence, may have been exposed on April 15 between 4:30 p.m. and 6:30 p.m.
RIDOH is coordinating with Panadería El Quetzal and Atmed Treatment Center to inform those who might have had contact with the infected individual. They are also working with the CDC’s Division of Global Migration Health (DGMH) since passengers on the same flights may also be at risk. Those believed to have been in contact with this patient during his contagious period are being reached out to with guidance on preventing further spread. RIDOH is engaging in additional measures following CDC protocols.
Anyone who suspects they might have been exposed and develops symptoms should contact their healthcare provider before visiting any medical facilities. This is important to minimize any potential risks to others. Generally, people who’ve had measles previously or have received two doses of the MMR vaccine are unlikely to contract the disease, even if exposed.
The most effective defense against measles is the MMR vaccination, which is safe and effective. Rhode Island boasts a commendable MMR vaccination rate, with around 97% of kindergarteners fully vaccinated.
“Measles is nearly entirely preventable through vaccination,” stated Dr. Jerry Larkin, Director of Health. “Parents with children over one year old who aren’t vaccinated should consult with their healthcare provider. For families facing insurance or access challenges, RIDOH can provide the vaccine at no cost.”
The first MMR dose is typically administered between 12 and 15 months, followed by a second dose between 4 and 6 years. Those traveling internationally should ensure they’re fully vaccinated. It’s crucial for infants aged 6 to 11 months to receive one dose of the MMR vaccine prior to international trips, followed by two doses after their first birthday as per the regular vaccination schedule.
Measles is a highly contagious viral infection that primarily affects the respiratory system. The virus can linger in the air for up to two hours after an infected person has left the area, complicating transmission risks. In 2025, the United States recorded three measles-related deaths, including two children, amidst a significant surge of over 2,100 confirmed cases and 49 outbreaks, mostly among unvaccinated individuals.
Symptoms of measles usually appear 7 to 21 days after exposure and include:
- High fever
- Cough
- Runny nose
- Red, watery eyes
- Small white spots inside the mouth
- A flat, blotchy rash
Infected individuals can spread the virus from four days before to four days after the rash develops. Healthcare professionals may initially suspect measles based on symptoms like fever and rash, but confirmatory testing is required through state health laboratories.
Currently, there is no specific antiviral treatment for measles. Supportive care includes medicine to reduce fever, hydration, and addressing bacterial infections if necessary. Vitamin A may also play a role in reducing the severity of the disease in certain cases.
For further details on measles, refer to the RIDOH health resources.
