Michigan's 2nd Measles Case Of 2025 Confirmed

KENT COUNTY, MI — Michigan health officials in Kent County have confirmed the state's second measles case of 2025, according to the county's health department.

County health officials said the infected adult had recently traveled abroad before returning to the U.S. and traveling between Michigan and New Jersey.

The case is the county's first confirmed measles case since 2013. Michigan's first measles case of 2025 was confirmed in Oakland County last month.

"Measles is a highly contagious disease that continues to circulate both in the U.S. and globally," Kent County Health Officer Adam London said. "This case is a reminder of how quickly measles can spread and the importance of vaccination. We urge residents to check their immunization status and to get vaccinated, especially if planning to travel internationally or into areas with active measles outbreaks."

Other potential exposure sites include:

• Monday, March 24 from 11:30 a.m. to 3 p.m. - Cooper's Hawk Winery and Restaurant in Kentwood
• Tuesday, March 25 from 8 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. - Gerald R. Ford International Airport in Grand Rapids
• Tuesday, March 25 from 11:20 a.m. to 4 p.m. - Detroit Metro Airport Delta Sky Club
• Thursday, March 27 from 6:45 p.m. to midnight - Detroit Metro Airport
• Thursday, March 27 to Friday, March 28 from 10:40 p.m. - 1 a.m. - Gerald R. Ford International Airport
• Friday, March 28 from 1:30-5:15 p.m. - Corewell Health Family Medicine - Gaslight in East Grand Rapids

Officials say measles is a highly contagious, vaccine-preventable disease that is spread by direct person-to-person contact and through the air.

Symptoms of measles usually begin within seven to 14 days after exposure and can appear up to 21 days after exposure. They include a high fever, cough, runny nose, red and watery eyes, tiny white spots on the inner cheeks and rashes, officials said.

If symptoms develop, residents are urged to not visit their doctor or emergency room unless they have called ahead so facilities can take precautions to prevent exposure to other people.

"Measles can lead to serious complications, especially in young children, pregnant individuals, and those with weakened immune systems," Kent County Medical Director Kristin Oldenberg said. "Fortunately, the measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR) vaccine is safe and highly effective at preventing measles. Two doses of the vaccine provide 97% protection against the disease."

The KCHD can be reached Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. at 616-632-7228. On weekends and evenings, call 211.