Measles Cases Rise in Washtenaw County Amidst National Trend and Vaccine Hesitancy
Four cases of measles have been confirmed in Washtenaw County, Michigan, since March 11, prompting public health officials to urge residents to ensure they are up-to-date on their vaccinations. The cases, all linked through close contact, come as the United States experiences a concerning rise in measles infections, a disease once considered largely eliminated. This resurgence is fueled by declining vaccination rates and growing skepticism towards vaccines, a trend that public health experts say poses a significant risk to community health.
The first case in Washtenaw County in nearly a decade was identified earlier this month, quickly followed by three additional confirmed infections. The Washtenaw County Health Department has identified public exposure locations, including Briarwood Mall and a Crunch Fitness gym in Ypsilanti, and is working to notify individuals who may have been exposed. The measles virus is highly contagious and can remain infectious in the air for up to two hours, according to health officials.
Understanding the Current Outbreak
Measles is a highly contagious viral infection that can cause fever, rash, cough, and runny nose. While typically not life-threatening, complications such as pneumonia, encephalitis (brain swelling), and even death can occur, particularly in young children and individuals with weakened immune systems. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reports that the measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR) vaccine is 97% effective in preventing the disease. Learn more about the MMR vaccine from the CDC.
Nationally, the number of measles cases has been climbing. In 2024, an estimated 95,000 people died from measles globally, with the vast majority being children under the age of five, according to the World Health Organization. The U.S. Had reached elimination status in 2000, but cases have been increasing, with last year seeing a record number of infections.
Declining Vaccination Rates and Public Trust
A key factor driving the resurgence of measles is a decline in childhood vaccination rates. A Reuters analysis found that the percentage of toddlers under three fully vaccinated in Michigan fell nearly three percentage points to 66.5% since January 2025. Read the Reuters analysis here. This decrease coincides with changes in vaccine policy under the Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) led by Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr., and a broader erosion of public trust in vaccines.
Susan Ringler Cerniglia, Public Information Officer for the Washtenaw Health Department, noted a shift in public sentiment. “We are seeing a falloff in routine vaccinations among children,” she said. “The pandemic was harmful in many ways. But one of the things we’re seeing is that trust that could have been in vaccines was undermined, and it’s a challenge when negative feelings about vaccines get lumped together.”
Earlier this year, DHHS overhauled the recommended childhood immunization schedule, reducing the number of universally recommended vaccines from 17 to 11. While the MMR vaccine remains on the list, the changes were widely criticized by medical professionals who expressed concerns about increased confusion and potential for decreased protection. A federal judge struck down the revised schedule on March 16, but the administration plans to appeal the decision. The Novel York Times reported on the court ruling.
Local Impact and Recommendations
Emily Stoneman, Associate Hospital Epidemiologist and Infection Control Director at the University of Michigan Medical School, emphasized the potential impact of an outbreak, particularly on college campuses. “Measles is probably one of the most contagious infectious diseases,” Stoneman explained. “For measles, that number is actually closer to 18,” referring to the reproductive number, which indicates how many people one infected person can infect.
While the risk to University of Michigan students is considered relatively low due to high vaccination rates in the Ann Arbor area, public health officials are urging all residents to check their vaccination status. “Check your vaccine status,” Ringler Cerniglia advised. “If you’re not sure you were vaccinated as a child, you can go ahead and get another one and then you don’t have to be concerned about an exposure like this. You can also do a blood test called a titer and check to witness if you have any immunity. We always wish people to be well-informed.”
The Washtenaw County Health Department continues to monitor the situation and provide updates as they become available. Residents are encouraged to stay informed and take proactive steps to protect themselves and their communities.
Disclaimer: This article provides information for general knowledge and informational purposes only, and does not constitute medical advice. It is essential to consult with a qualified healthcare professional for any health concerns or before making any decisions related to your health or treatment.
The Washtenaw County Health Department will continue to provide updates on the measles situation. The next scheduled update is planned for April 8th. Please share this information with your network and consider discussing vaccination with your healthcare provider.
