Measles in Southwest Virginia

The Virginia Department of Health (VDH) is reporting about new confirmed measles cases in Southwest Virginia. The regional count thus far is 6 for 2026.

VDH is leading the response, contact tracing, and public messaging. Carilion front-line teams also have extensive plans in place to respond should a measles patient present at a Carilion facility. 

Measles is a highly contagious illness that can spread easily through the air when an infected person breathes, coughs, or sneezes.

We have some resources and guidance to support you if you have or receive questions.

Please review this patient-facing overview and guidance available on CarilionClinic.org. Ultimately, the MMR vaccine is key to protection. If you or a loved one ever experience symptoms or want to receive the vaccine, reach out to your primary care physician.

VDH will continue to act as our source of truth. Here are some helpful resources:

• VDH: Measles FAQ and Virginia Surveillance Updates
• VDH: Measles Recommendations for Providers 
• CDC: Measles Page (Clinical Overview, Cases & Outbreaks, and more) 

Our Infection Control and Prevention team has also developed guidance to follow should your team encounter a suspected or confirmed case. Note that you need to be on the Carilion network to view the documents.

Questions?

If you have any questions, contact Infection Control and Prevention at Infection_Control_CMC@carilionclinic.org or 540-981-7760.