Measles Exposure Alert Issued for Ocean City Visitors
Ocean City, MD - The Maryland Department of Health is warning residents about a possible measles exposure in Ocean City, Maryland. An individual from another state who had measles visited several locations in the area while contagious.
Health officials are asking anyone who was at these locations during the listed times to watch for symptoms. The overall risk stays low for people who are fully vaccinated.
One exposure site is Casablanca Oceanside Inn on 24th Street and Baltimore Avenue. The visit happened from 4 p.m. on Sept. 3 through noon on Sept. 6.
Buona Vita Pizzeria, also on 21st Street and Baltimore Avenue, was visited on Sept. 3 from 5 to 8 p.m.
Bonfire Restaurant on 70th Street and Coastal Highway was visited on Sept. 5 from 4:30 to 8 p.m.
Measles spreads easily through the air. The virus can linger in a room for up to two hours after an infected person leaves.
People who were at these locations should watch for symptoms for 21 days. Early signs include a fever above 101 degrees, a runny nose, a cough, and red, watery eyes.
A red rash usually follows within one to four days of the early symptoms. It starts on the face and spreads to the rest of the body.
Anyone who develops symptoms should avoid school, work, and public places. They should also call their healthcare provider before going in, so staff can take steps to prevent spreading the virus to others.
People who have had two doses of the MMR vaccine, or who were born before 1957, are considered protected. Anyone unsure of their status can check with their doctor or look up their records through My Immunization Record online.
Anyone who is not fully vaccinated and thinks they may have been exposed should contact their healthcare provider or local health department right away.
The MMR vaccine is recommended for children starting at 12 to 15 months old, with a second dose between ages 4 and 6. Adults should have at least one documented dose, and some at higher risk are advised to get two.
Local health departments are offering MMR vaccines and hosting clinics across the state. Most health insurance plans cover the vaccine, and free options are available for those who are uninsured or underinsured.
Maryland has confirmed 40 measles cases so far in 2026. The Department of Health is not releasing further details about the individual involved to protect their privacy.
