BLOOMINGTON — While Monroe County currently has zero reported measles cases, the Monroe County Health Department is strongly encouraging residents to ensure they are up to date on their measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR) vaccinations following a sharp rise in cases across Indiana.
According to the Indiana Department of Health, 117 known measles cases have been reported statewide in 2026 as of November 4th, with 43 of those cases added since October 28th. Nationally, the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has recorded over 4,800 confirmed cases this year—already more than double the 2,286 confirmed cases reported throughout all of 2025.
Measles is a highly contagious illness that can lead to serious health complications, particularly for young children, pregnant individuals, and people with compromised immune systems. Health officials note that the MMR vaccine is the most effective protection available against the disease.
Vaccination Guidance for Residents
The health department urges residents to verify their vaccination history and take necessary steps:
- Unvaccinated Individuals: Anyone who has never received the MMR vaccine should get vaccinated.
- Historical Vaccinations: Individuals vaccinated between 1962 and 1968 may have received an inactivated measles vaccine that is no longer fully effective and should consult a healthcare provider about revaccination or titer testing.
- Low Immunity: Those whose titer testing indicates insufficient immunity to measles, mumps, or rubella should receive the MMR vaccine.
- Protected Status: Most people born after 1957 who have received two doses of the MMR vaccine are considered protected for life and do not require a booster.
Safe and effective MMR vaccination appointments can be scheduled at the Morgan County Public Health Clinic in Martinsville by calling 765-342-6621.
Understanding School Exclusion Policies
Because measles can spread rapidly in communities with unvaccinated pockets, health officials stress that vaccination protects both families and vulnerable community members who cannot be vaccinated due to age or medical reasons.
Under Indiana Department of Health regulations, if a case of measles is confirmed in a child’s school or daycare, unvaccinated children will be required to stay home from school and all school-related activities for 21 days following their last known exposure to the infected person. The CDC recommends that children receive two doses of the MMR vaccine—the first between 12 and 15 months of age, and the second between ages 4 and 6.
