The Arkansas Department of Health (ADH) has announced a fourth confirmed pediatric measles case this year. The patient, an Arkansas resident from Faulkner County, was not fully vaccinated. The ADH reports this case as the first instance of community spread of measles in Arkansas for 2025, as the individual has no travel history outside the state.
Measles, known for its high contagion potential, can lead to serious health issues. Common symptoms are fever, cough, runny nose, conjunctivitis, and rash. The measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR) vaccine is known to offer long-lasting immunity. According to the health department, “Patients are infectious for both four days before and after they develop a rash.”
While contagious, the individual was present at multiple public locations. No exposures have been reported in daycares or schools. People who were at the same venues during the exposure period are advised to update their MMR vaccination promptly. The health department notes, “If the MMR vaccine is given soon after exposure, it can stop the infection from developing.” For those who cannot or choose not to receive the MMR vaccine, a consultation with a healthcare provider is recommended. The ADH will be working with affected locations to contact those potentially exposed. Generally, individuals vaccinated with the MMR vaccine or born before 1957 are considered immune.
Residents or visitors to the implicated locations should watch for symptoms over the next 21 days. If symptoms appear during this time, individuals should contact their healthcare provider by phone and report the potential measles exposure. Healthcare providers can then notify the ADH at 1-866-940-7568.
Due to the identified community spread in Faulkner County, vaccination guidelines have been revised for those living in or near the county, including Cleburne, Conway, Lonoke, Perry, Pulaski, Van Buren, and White counties. Children aged six to 11 months may receive a “zero” dose of the MMR vaccine. They should still follow the standard vaccination schedule with doses at 12 months and then between four to six years of age. Individuals older than 12 months should complete a two-dose series of the MMR vaccine, with a minimum interval of 28 days between doses.
For further details, residents are encouraged to visit the ADH measles information page or contact the department directly. Future updates will be available there.
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