DETROIT — A Michigan baby has contracted measles after receiving one dose of the MMR vaccine just a day before traveling through an airport where another person was contagious, health officials reported.
The 12-month-old girl, who is the first documented measles case in Ingham County since 1994, had traveled out of state with her family. However, there wasn’t enough time between the vaccination and exposure to the virus for the vaccine to fully activate the immune system, according to Dr. Nike Shoyinka, the county’s medical health officer. She spoke at a news conference on April 15.
“Typically, the body’s immune system develops full immunity about two weeks after vaccination,” Dr. Shoyinka explained. “Though the child was vaccinated, the short time frame left her still somewhat vulnerable. However, her symptoms were very mild, likely due to receiving at least one dose of the vaccine.”
The MMR vaccine, which protects against measles, mumps, and rubella, has been key in reducing measles outbreaks. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends two doses of the MMR vaccine for children.
Dr. Shoyinka commended the family for their proactive communication, noting that they provided helpful details about potential exposures and their travel locations.
“They did exactly what they should have done in ensuring their child was vaccinated before the trip,” she said. “The child is doing well and is currently isolating at home with family.”
The U.S. is facing the largest measles surge since 2019, when more than 1,200 cases and 22 outbreaks were reported, according to the CDC. As of April 11, 2025, over 700 measles cases have been confirmed across two dozen states.
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