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- calendar_today October 30, 2026
Precautionary Measles Screening Begins at Riley Children’s Hospital
Riley Hospital for Children in downtown Indianapolis announced it will begin screening all patients and visitors for measles starting Monday. This enhanced precaution follows an increase in measles cases in Indiana and across the United States.
Screening Procedures and Guidance for Hospital Visitors
According to hospital officials, screening will take place at the facility’s entrances, where individuals will be asked brief questions regarding potential measles symptoms and any recent exposures. Those seeking treatment for measles are strongly encouraged to call ahead so staff can prepare and take appropriate safety measures.
For those with scheduled appointments, arriving a few minutes early is recommended to allow time for the screening process. If patients or visitors present with measles symptoms, they are asked to notify staff as soon as they arrive at the hospital.
Hospital’s Commitment to Patient Safety
Dr. Samina Bhumbra, medical director of infection prevention at Riley Children’s, emphasized the importance of the new measure: “These additional precautions are about protecting our patients and families while continuing to provide the best care for our patients. We are committed to providing the safest possible environment for the children and families we serve.”
Measles Transmission and Symptoms
Riley Children’s Hospital explained that measles is an airborne virus that can remain active in the air for up to two hours after an infected person coughs or sneezes. The disease is particularly risky for infants, immunocompromised individuals, and those not eligible for vaccination.
Common measles symptoms include fever, runny nose, cough, red or watery eyes, and a distinctive rash. High fever, cough, and runny nose typically appear within one to four days of infection, with the red, blotchy rash developing two to four days later. The rash usually starts near the hairline and spreads downward.
Rising Measles Cases in Indiana
As of October 30, 2026, Indiana reported 97 confirmed measles cases in 2026, a significant increase compared to prior years. In 2024, there was only one recorded case statewide, and 10 in 2025. Cases by county include:
- Adams — 17
- Allen — 5
- DeKalb — 5
- Elkhart — 3
- Jay — 1
- Jennings — 1
- Kosciusko — 1
- LaGrange — 22
- Miami — 10
- Noble — 1
- Ohio — 1
- Parke — 6
- Randolph — 2
- Switzerland — 6
- Wayne — 16
This surge reflects a broader national trend. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reported a record 2,289 cases nationwide in 2025, and 4,852 cases as of October 29, 2026. From 2000 to 2018, no more than 700 cases were reported annually in the U.S.
Vaccination Rates and Prevention Efforts
The increase in measles cases coincides with declining vaccination rates. Indiana Department of Health data show that measles vaccination rates among kindergarteners have decreased from over 94% in the 2019-20 school year to about 90.1% as of this year. The CDC notes that two doses of the measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR) vaccine are 97% effective, while one dose offers 93% effectiveness against measles.
Riley Children’s Hospital advises unvaccinated individuals who may have been exposed to measles to call their primary care provider or local health department promptly. Exposed, unvaccinated individuals should also isolate for 21 days to prevent further spread.
Source: fox59.com.
