Measles Update for July 2025

The United States and other countries around the world have been experiencing outbreaks of measles over the past several months. Decreasing immunization rates and overall vaccine hesitancy related to COVID vaccines and the pandemic are thought to be contributing to the increase in cases. 

While Wisconsin has a relatively low vaccination rate (74.1% of five- and six-year-olds), we have been lucky not to have any cases in the state thus far. However, it is important for businesses to be prepared for measles to impact their workforce.

Measles Vaccination Helps Prevent Spreading

Measles is spread in the same way as respiratory illnesses – through coughing and sneezing droplets into the air. People infected with measles can be contagious before the typical rash appears. Most adults in the United States have been previously vaccinated for measles with the measles/mumps/rubella (MMR) vaccine. The Center for Disease Control (CDC) considers anyone immune if they have at least one of the following:

• Written documentation of adequate vaccination
• One or more doses of a measles-containing vaccine administered on or after the first birthday for preschool-age children and adults not at high risk
• Two doses of measles-containing vaccine for school-age children and adults at high risk, including college students, health care personnel and international travelers
• Laboratory evidence of immunity (e.g., measles IgG antibody-positive)
• Laboratory confirmation of measles infection
• Born before 1957

Anyone can check their immunity status through the Wisconsin Immunization Registry. 

Workplace Exposure to Measles or Other Illnesses

Q. What will happen if there is an exposure at our workplace? 

A. Doctors and clinicians will notify the Public Health Department if they diagnose a measles case. The local health department then reaches out to any affected individuals and workplaces with recommendations.

Q. How can we prevent a measles exposure in our workplace? 

A. Vaccination remains the most effective method of prevention. CDC guidelines state that exposed individuals who do not have documented immunity may need to furlough from days five-21 after exposure. Immunizations are available at our Froedtert Workforce Health clinics and at Froedtert pharmacies throughout our communities.

Froedtert Workforce Health can help with your questions about measles, vaccinations and how you can prepare for and prevent measles.  Contact us for more information including workplace assistance.