> ## Content Index > Fetch the complete content index at: https://www.shayinformed.com/llms.txt > Use this file to discover other available public pages before exploring further. # Kentucky measles outbreak hits worst level since 1991 - URL: https://www.shayinformed.com/kentucky-measles-outbreak-hits-worst-level-since-1991/ - Published: 2026-08-27T17:21:10.000Z - Updated: 2026-08-27T17:21:10.000Z - Author: Shay McAlister - Tags: Covering Kentucky More than two dozen confirmed cases prompt state health officials to urge unvaccinated Kentuckians to get the MMR shot. --- *I'm Shay McAlister, and this is Shay Informed: an independent, ad-free platform dedicated to honest journalism with compassion and clarity.* *Are you new here?* [*Sign up*](https://www.shayinformed.com/#/portal/signup) *for the free weekly newsletter or subscribe to support our mission and access behind-the-scenes content, podcasts, and in-depth stories reserved for paid subscribers.* --- Kentucky is now dealing with its worst measles outbreak in more than three decades, but state health officials say there's a silver lining: more people are rolling up their sleeves for the vaccine. Dr. Steven Stack provided an update this week on the outbreak, confirming 25 active cases of measles across the commonwealth, concentrated in communities with low vaccination rates. Add those to earlier cases from earlier in the year, and Kentucky has now logged 29 measles cases in 2026- the highest count the state has seen since 1991. Every single case, Stack noted, has been in someone who wasn't vaccinated against measles. ![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/8c/19/8c19890d-f21a-4442-8055-5db9783cac58/content/images/2026/08/Screenshot-2026-08-27-at-1.20.00---PM.png) Provided by the Cabinet for Health and Family Services ## The good news Despite the concerning spread, Stack pointed to something encouraging: people are listening. Since August 16, more than 250 doses of the MMR vaccine- which protects against measles, mumps, and rubella- have been administered in the Kentucky counties currently dealing with cases. "Although this outbreak raises concerns about the spread of serious illness, public messaging emphasizing the importance and effectiveness of vaccinations appears to be working," Stack said. ## Why the vaccine matters Stack was direct about the numbers: two doses of the MMR vaccine are 97% effective at preventing measles. That's about as close to a guarantee as vaccines get. For families who haven't started or finished the vaccine series, he had a clear message- don't wait. In the U.S., kids typically get their first MMR dose between 12 and 15 months old, and Stack urged parents to get that first shot as early as possible if their child hasn't had it yet. Adults who are unsure of their own vaccination status are encouraged to check in with their healthcare provider or local health department. If you suspect you or a family member has measles, health officials say the priority is keeping your distance from others. Measles is highly contagious and spreads easily in unvaccinated communities, so isolating at home and calling your healthcare provider before showing up in person- at a clinic, ER, or anywhere else- helps prevent further spread. ![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/8c/19/8c19890d-f21a-4442-8055-5db9783cac58/content/images/2026/08/Screenshot-2026-08-27-at-1.20.33---PM.png) Provided by the Cabinet for Health and Family Services ## The bottom line Kentucky hasn't seen numbers like this in over 30 years, and health officials are treating it as a wake-up call rather than a reason to panic. The message from the state is straightforward: if you or your kids aren't vaccinated, now's the time. The shot works, it's proven, and it's the single biggest factor separating who gets sick in this outbreak and who doesn't. If you have questions about your vaccination status or your children's immunization schedule, reach out to your healthcare provider or local health department. *Like what you see? Learn more about Shay Informed* [*here*](https://www.shayinformed.com/welcome-to-shay-informed/)*! This is honest journalism with compassion and clarity.*