Wisconsin health officials are investigating a possible measles exposure at the emergency department of Marshfield Medical Center in Weston after a confirmed case visited the hospital while infectious.
Anyone who was in the emergency department at 3400 Ministry Parkway between 1.30pm and 3.30pm on Thursday, November 5, may have been exposed, according to the Wisconsin Department of Health Services and Marathon County Health Department.
Officials are working to identify and notify people who may have come into contact with the virus. People who have been vaccinated or previously had measles are considered to be at low risk, but should still monitor their health.
What to do after the possible measles exposure
Those who are unsure whether they are protected should check their records through the Wisconsin Immunization Registry or contact their healthcare provider or local health department.
People who were not vaccinated, or whose vaccination status is unknown, should speak to a healthcare professional about whether an MMR vaccine or other medication may be recommended after exposure. The MMR vaccine can be used as post-exposure protection when given within 72 hours in appropriate cases.
The Marathon County Health Department is due to hold a free MMR vaccination clinic from 10am to noon on Sunday, November 8, for people who may have been exposed and do not have immunity from vaccination or a previous measles infection. No insurance information will be required.
Anyone who develops symptoms should stay at home and avoid work, school, shops and public transport. They should call a healthcare provider before attending a clinic or hospital and explain that they may have been exposed to measles.
Early symptoms can include a fever, cough, runny nose and red or watery eyes. A rash usually appears several days later. People exposed during the hospital visit may begin developing symptoms between November 11 and November 25, although those with weakened immune systems could become ill sooner.
Wisconsin has recorded 477 confirmed measles cases, nine hospitalisations and one death during 2026, according to state health officials. Six of the confirmed cases have been reported in Marathon County, with those cases linked to travel outside the state rather than the outbreak in south-west Wisconsin.
