MOREHEAD, Ky. — The Kentucky Department for Public Health is alerting the public to potential measles exposures at two health care facilities in Morehead following visits by a person or persons with measles in late August.
According to information released by state health officials, the possible exposures occurred at UK St. Claire Regional Medical Center and UK St. Claire Urgent Care – Hampton Way between August 25 and August 31, 2026.
The identified exposure locations and times are:
UK St. Claire Regional Medical Center, 222 Medical Circle — August 25 and August 27, from 6:30 a.m. until 9:00 p.m. ET. Those potentially exposed were advised to monitor for symptoms through September 15 and September 17, respectively.
UK St. Claire Regional Medical Center Emergency Department, 222 Medical Circle — August 30 at 11:50 p.m. through August 31 at 4:15 a.m. ET. Those potentially exposed should monitor for symptoms through September 21.
UK St. Claire Urgent Care – Hampton Way, 431 Hampton Way — August 31 from 8:30 a.m. until 11:40 a.m. ET. Those potentially exposed should monitor for symptoms through September 21.
The Kentucky Department for Public Health notes that the listed exposure periods include two hours after the infected individual left the location, because measles virus can remain infectious in the air for a period of time.
What to watch for
Measles is a highly contagious respiratory illness. Symptoms can include fever, cough, runny nose, red or watery eyes, and a rash. The illness can cause serious complications, particularly among young children and other vulnerable individuals.
State health officials say vaccination remains the best protection against measles.
Anyone who believes they may have been exposed and begins experiencing symptoms is being asked to call a health care provider before arriving at a doctor's office, urgent care facility or emergency department. Calling ahead allows medical staff to take precautions to reduce the possibility of exposing other patients.
The warning is especially important for individuals who were present at either Morehead facility during the identified dates and times and who are not immune to measles.
Why health officials issue public exposure notices
The Kentucky Department for Public Health and local health departments issue public notices when a person with measles has visited a location where health officials cannot identify every individual who may have been exposed.
The notice does not mean everyone who visited these facilities during the listed periods contracted measles. Rather, it alerts those who may have been present so they can monitor themselves for symptoms and take appropriate precautions.
Anyone who develops symptoms consistent with measles following a possible exposure should contact a health care provider by telephone for further instructions before seeking in-person care.
The Morehead Minute will continue to follow any additional public-health announcements concerning measles exposures or confirmed cases affecting Rowan County and the surrounding area.
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This health alert is made possible by our partner Fresh Start Health
