Measles Exposure Alert Issued for Ocean City Visitors; Health Department Urges Vaccination

The Maryland Department of Health has issued a notification regarding potential measles exposure for individuals who visited specific locations in Ocean City, Maryland, between September 3rd and September 6th, 2026. The notification, stemming from the visit of an infectious individual from out of state, is prompting contact tracing efforts and urging residents to verify their immunization status against the highly contagious disease. Measles can spread rapidly through airborne droplets from coughing or sneezing and can remain viable in the air for up to two hours after an infected person has departed.

Individuals who were present at the Casablanca Oceanside Inn, located at 2408 Baltimore Avenue, Ocean City, MD 21842, between 4 p.m. on September 3rd, 2026, and 12 p.m. on September 6th, 2026, may have been exposed. Additionally, patrons of Buona Vita Pizzeria at 2100 Baltimore Avenue on September 3rd, 2026, between 5 p.m. and 8 p.m., and customers of Bonfire Restaurant at 7009 Coastal Highway on September 5th, 2026, from 4:30 p.m. to 8 p.m., are also being alerted to a potential risk. The department emphasizes that the overall risk of infection is low for those who are fully vaccinated against measles.

The Maryland Department of Health is advising anyone who visited these locations during the specified times, particularly those who are not fully vaccinated or lack immunity, to monitor themselves for measles symptoms for a period of 21 days following their potential exposure. Early symptoms of measles include a fever exceeding 101 degrees Fahrenheit, a runny nose, cough, and red, watery eyes. A characteristic rash typically appears on the face and spreads to the rest of the body one to four days after the initial symptoms emerge. Measles is contagious from four days before the onset of the rash until four days after its appearance.

Residents who develop any symptoms suggestive of measles are strongly encouraged to contact their healthcare provider immediately. It is crucial to inform the provider’s office before entering a waiting room or emergency department so that appropriate precautions can be taken to prevent further transmission. Confirming vaccination status is a key step; individuals who have received two doses of the measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR) vaccine or were born before 1957 are generally considered immune. Personal immunization records can be accessed through healthcare providers or online via the My Immunization Record (MyIR) portal.

The MMR vaccine is recommended by public health authorities, with the first dose typically administered to infants between 12 and 15 months of age, and the second dose between four and six years of age. For infants aged 6 to 11 months traveling to or residing in areas with measles outbreaks, an earlier first dose is advised. Adults are generally recommended to have at least one documented dose of the MMR vaccine, with some at higher risk requiring two doses if they lack other evidence of immunity. Local health departments across Maryland are actively administering the MMR vaccine and are working with community partners to ensure broad access to both vaccines and educational resources about measles. Information regarding upcoming vaccine clinics can be found on local health department websites.

The MMR vaccine is typically covered by standard health insurance plans and is also available through the Vaccines for Children Program for eligible children. Uninsured or underinsured adults may inquire with their local health department about potential access to free MMR vaccines through the Maryland Vaccine Program. Travelers are advised to consult the CDC and relevant state health department websites for information on measles cases and outbreaks in their intended destinations, and the World Health Organization for international travel guidance. As of 2026, Maryland has reported 40 confirmed cases of measles. More comprehensive information on measles prevention, transmission, symptoms, and recommended actions for potential exposures is available on the Maryland Department of Health’s website.

Article by Ken Buckler, based upon information from the Maryland Department of Health.

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