The Hawai‘i Department of Health (DOH) reports no additional confirmed measles cases following the two reported in April in addition to concluding that there was no further community spread.
U.S. measles cases continue to rise, with more than 1,000 cases already reported across 30 states this year. The risk remains high for future travel-related measles cases reaching Hawai‘i, and DOH recommends continued vigilance and efforts to increase the MMR (measles, mumps and rubella) vaccination rate.
In addition to recent measles concerns, cases of pertussis (whooping cough) have increased at a worrying rate in Hawai‘i.
Vaccination protects individuals and communities and prevents cases from becoming outbreaks. However, vaccination rates for all routinely recommended vaccinations for school entry — including those for measles, pertussis, polio and varicella (chickenpox) — have declined nationally and in Hawai‘i since 2019, with Hawai‘i below national averages.
DOH strongly recommends that children and adults stay up to date with recommended vaccinations to prevent vaccine-preventable diseases. DOH encourages discussing vaccine-related questions or concerns with a trusted healthcare provider.
