First measles case since 1990 reported in Lancaster County

Officials warn that measles is highly contagious and spreads through the air.

January 29, 2026Updated: January 29, 2026
News Channel NebraskaBy News Channel Nebraska

LINCOLN, Neb. — Health officials say the first case of measles in Lancaster County since 1990 has been confirmed.

The Lincoln-Lancaster County Health Department reported that a vaccinated adult male with no out-of-state travel history contracted the disease, ending a decades-long streak without local cases.

Officials warn that measles is highly contagious and spreads through the air. Anyone who may have been at the Walmart at 4700 N. 27th St. on Jan. 18 from 1 to 3:30 p.m., or at Med Elite Urgent Care at 7120 S. 69th St. on Jan. 25 from 1:30 to 5 p.m., could have been exposed.

The health department is urging residents to monitor themselves for symptoms and has posted a risk-assessment survey on the City of Lincoln website: lincoln.ne.gov/Measles.

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