The Sconi

The Wisconsin Department of Health Services (DHS) and Oconto County Public Health have confirmed five new cases of measles in Oconto County. These additional cases are linked to the nine previously reported on August 2, 2025, bringing the total number of confirmed cases in the county to 14. Personal health details about those affected will not be shared to protect their privacy.

Officials report that measles is now spreading within the community. DHS is working with Oconto County Public Health and neighboring local health departments to identify people who may have been exposed and notify them directly.

At this time, investigators have not found any public locations where it is not possible to identify all individuals who may have been exposed.

Unvaccinated individuals or those unsure of their vaccination status are at higher risk for contracting measles. DHS advises anyone who thinks they may have been exposed and is not immune to stay home and watch for symptoms.

People who develop symptoms should remain at home and avoid contact with others, including avoiding work, school, shopping, or public transportation. They should call their doctor’s office or clinic before visiting so precautions can be taken to prevent exposing other patients.

Measles spreads easily through the air when an infected person coughs or sneezes, and the virus can linger in the air for up to two hours. The disease can lead to serious complications such as pneumonia, brain damage, deafness, or even death.

Vaccination remains the most effective way to prevent measles. DHS recommends that all children receive two doses of the mumps, measles, rubella (MMR) vaccine before age four. People born before 1957 are generally considered immune. More information about immunization recommendations is available on the DHS measles immunization webpage: https://www.dhs.wisconsin.gov/immunization/measles.htm

The MMR vaccine can be obtained from doctors’ offices or clinics, local health departments, and some pharmacies. Programs such as Vaccines for Children and Vaccines for Adults may assist those without insurance coverage for vaccines.

Wisconsin residents can review their vaccination records through the Wisconsin Immunization Registry (WIR): https://www.dhs.wisconsin.gov/immunization/wir.htm or by contacting their health care provider or local health department.

Updates on this outbreak will be posted on the DHS Outbreaks and Investigations webpage: https://www.dhs.wisconsin.gov/outbreaks/index.htm

Media inquiries can be directed to DHSMedia@dhs.wisconsin.gov.