Measles Information
South County Measles Updates:
As of March 28, 2025
According to the CDC, measles cases continue to increase worldwide. As of 3/27/2025, there have been 483 confirmed cases reported by 20 US jurisdictions, including cases in the surrounding states of New York, New Jersey and VT. Experts believe these numbers are an underestimate of the true number. Everyone should be alert for cases and call their health care provider or local health department if they have a fever and rash, especially if they have traveled abroad. Those who travel abroad should make sure they are vaccinated for measles.
Everyone should make sure they have received their measles, mumps and rubella (MMR) vaccines.
Measles is a serious disease that can make people very ill, especially young children. Complications include pneumonia, encephalitis, miscarriage, preterm birth, hospitalization, and death.
Local Response
The Massachusetts Department of Public Health is monitoring the situation very carefully. The Southern Berkshire Public Health Collaborative (SBPHC) provides public health nursing to most of south county and, along with their partners in Pittsfield and the rest of Berkshire County, is prepared to investigate cases and distribute vaccines or other protective measures as needed. If there is a person with measles, we will quickly try to stop it from spreading.
Local public health, schools and medical providers in the area are working together to prepare for if measles impacts our community. This includes
- Assisting residents with finding MMR vaccines.
- Providing a chart to help adults of all ages decide whether they should get the MMR vaccination under certain circumstances, including before traveling.
- Providing information on how to prevent measles before and after traveling
What are the symptoms of Measles?
Please watch for any of the following symptoms, especially 21 days after traveling internationally.
- Fever
- Cough
- Runny nose
- Red, watery eyes (conjunctivitis/pink eye)
- Tiny white spots inside the mouth
- Rash with flat, dry spots. (The rash may appear red or pink on fair skin but may have no change in color on darker skin.
What constitutes an “exposure” from measles?
Being exposed to measles happens when you are in the same area as someone who has measles, or in that area for up to 2 hours after the infected person left. Measles is extremely contagious, but people who have had a measles vaccine or previous measles infection are much less likely to get sick (two doses of MMR is about 97% effective in preventing measles).
What is the best way to prevent measles?
Getting the measles vaccine is the best way to prevent measles.
For more information, visit https://www.mass.gov/info-details/measles .
Where can I get the MMR Vaccine?
The MMR Vaccine is available:
- Primary Care Providers: Individuals who are looking to get their MMR vaccine should call their primary care provider to see if it is recommended (based on birthday and vaccine history) and ask if there is an appointment available.
- Pharmacies: Visit https://www.easyvax.com/. Some pharmacies that have MMR currently include CVS , Walgreens,
- Southern Berkshire Public Health Collaborative: SBPHC provides all childhood vaccines (including MMR) and also has limited supply of adult MMR vaccines. Call 413 717 7209 to learn more.
Looking for Help?
Contact the Southern Berkshire Public Health Collaborative if you need assistance finding an MMR vaccine in our area or have further questions at 413 717 7209.
