Lexington, KY – January 9, 2026

Health officials have identified potential measles case exposure in Lexington-Fayette County. An unvaccinated, out-of-state traveler stayed at the Hyatt Place in Hamburg from December 31, 2025 – January 2, 2026 and dined at the Hamburg Panera location on January 1.

This virus can cause high fever, cough, runny nose, red watery eyes and a rash. Fevers may spike to more than 104°F, a rash may develop in 3 to 5 days after symptoms begin, with the illness resolving in 7 to 10 days. These symptoms usually appear 7 to 21 days after exposure. 

About 1 in 5 people in the U.S who get measles will be hospitalized, and 1 out of every 1,000 people with measles will develop brain swelling, possibly leading to brain damage. Even with the best care, 1-3 in 1,000 people with measles will die. Children younger than 5 years of age are the most vulnerable, but anyone who is not vaccinated is at risk. 

Measles is very contagious. It can easily spread in the air when an infected person coughs or sneezes, up to two hours after the infected person left the room. 

The best protection against measles is the measles-mumps-rubella (MMR) vaccine. Unvaccinated persons, including those who have a medical or other exemption to vaccination, must be quarantined through day 21 after their most recent exposure. Unvaccinated individuals who receive their first dose of MMR vaccine within 72 hours from exposure may return to childcare, school, or work. If you have questions or concerns regarding your household’s vaccination status, please speak with a trusted healthcare provider, as they will have the most up to date information and be able to address any questions or concerns you may have. 

Persons positive for measles should stay away from others for four days after developing the rash AND until fever-free for 24 hours without fever reducing medications, or at the direction of a physician. 

It is very important not to ignore the symptoms of measles. If anyone in your household develops an illness with a fever (101°F or more), cough, runny nose or red eyes, with or without a rash, please consult your primary care practitioner to be evaluated immediately. For more information, you can contact the Lexington-Fayette County Health Department at 859-899-5222, or visit www.cdc.gov/measles.

Media Contact:
Lexington-Fayette County Health Department
communications@lfchd.org