The Metro Public Health Department (MPHD) has received confirmation of a case of the measles, believed to be the first measles case in Nashville since 2005. The case is in isolation. The source of the infection being investigated, including possible contacts. A recent travel history has been reported. The case was not vaccinated against measles.
Measles is a highly contagious virus. According to the CDC, if one person with the virus is present, up to 9 out of 10 people nearby will become infected if they are not protected. Measles spreads most commonly through the air when an infected person coughs or sneezes and can remain in the air for hours.
MPHD's Vaccine Preventable Disease team is trained to investigate any potential contacts of confirmed measles cases, then conducting testing and offering Post-Exposure Prophylaxis to appropriate persons. Contact investigations would be completed of any confirmed cases in Davidson County, with guidance provided on isolation and quarantine procedures. Contact investigations rely on cooperation from those involved, and MPHD asks the community to work with investigators if they are contacted.
The Measles-Mumps-Rubella vaccine, or MMR vaccine, is very effective at preventing the infection of measles. MPHD encourages those who are not vaccinated against measles to consult with their primary care provider and ask about getting vaccinated. The MMR vaccine is available by appointment at all MPHD preventive health clinics, Monday through Friday. Walk-ins are accepted as can be accommodated until 2:30 p.m. Appointments can be made at the following clinics:
- East Nashville Public Health Center, 1015 East Trinity Lane, 615-862-7916
- Lentz Public Health Center, 2500 Charlotte Avenue, 615-340-5607
- Woodbine Public Health Center, 224 Oriel Avenue, 615-862-7940
CDC numbers show that in 2025, more than 1,600 cases of measles have been reported in the United States. Of those cases, 92% were not fully vaccinated. According to the CDC, two doses of MMR vaccine are about 97% effective at preventing measles; one dose is about 93% effective. For more information on measles, visit Nashville.gov/measles.
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