The Louisiana Department of Health (LDH) has confirmed two cases of measles in adult residents of the Greater New Orleans area. At this time, the patients’ exposure to measles appears to be linked to international travel.
The LDH Office of Public Health is working to identify and notify those who have come into contact with the infected individuals.
These are the first measles cases reported in Louisiana in 2025. In 2024, three confirmed travel-associated measles cases were reported in Louisiana, all in the greater New Orleans area.
Measles is highly contagious and can spread rapidly among individuals who have not received the measles, mumps, rubella (MMR) vaccine. Measles cases can result in hospitalization and, in extreme cases, can lead to death. The measles virus can be particularly dangerous for babies and young children.
The best way to prevent getting sick is to be immunized against measles. Two doses of the MMR (measles, mumps, rubella) vaccine are highly effective at preventing measles. Talk to your healthcare provider about whether the MMR vaccine is right for you.