Health Department reports measles case

For immediate release

Fort Wayne (Sept. 24, 2026) – The Allen County Department of Health confirms one local case of measles, in an unvaccinated minor.

The patient is stable and recovering. No additional information will be released because of state and federal privacy protections.

The confirmation comes as part of an investigation conducted with the Indiana Department of Health (IDOH). This is an evolving situation and the investigation is in its early stages. More information will be shared when it is available. 

“Now is the time for our community to get vaccinated,” said Health Department Administrator Mindy Waldron. “Measles is dangerous, highly contagious and extremely risky to those too young to be fully vaccinated and people with certain medical conditions. The Allen County Department of Health asks that everyone check their vaccination status and seek immunization for all eligible family members.”

Vaccination is not only for you. It protects your family, friends and community.

Measles symptoms typically appear 10 to 14 days after exposure to the virus, though some symptoms can appear as little as seven days after exposure. A red, blotchy rash is often the most visible symptom, and that appears three to five days after initial cold-like symptoms start. 

Symptoms of measles also can include: 

  • High fever
  • Sore throat
  • Small white spots inside cheeks
  • Red, watery eyes
  • Cough
  • Runny nose

Again, Measles is highly contagious and spreads when someone who is infected coughs or sneezes, sending droplets into the air. It can lead to serious health problems, particularly in children younger than 5. Effects of measles include ear infections, diarrhea, pneumonia, encephalitis (brain inflammation), severe hearing loss and even death.

Anyone with symptoms should stay home and contact their health care provider or the health department immediately. Health department staff can be reached from 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Monday through Friday at (260) 449-7556.  

Children are routinely vaccinated for measles before attending kindergarten. The Health Department offers vaccines for measles and other vaccine-preventable diseases at its Medical Annex, 4813 New Haven Ave., and appointments can be made by calling (260) 449-7504.

Immunizations are also available from Super Shot, and appointments can be made by calling (260) 424-7468. 

Super Shot clinic hours

1515 Hobson Road, Fort Wayne – 

Priority appointments for MMR vaccines

Walk-ins welcome

  • 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. Tuesdays and Thursdays
  • 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Wednesdays and Fridays
  • 9 a.m. to noon Saturdays

Information about measles including case counts locally and around the U.S. is available on the Indiana Department of Health website, as well as from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). 

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