Nearly half of measles cases in kids, all in southwestern Wisconsin

(The Center Square) – A getting a better sense about Wisconsin's measles outbreak is coming to light. The state's Department of Health Services said there are now nearly 140 measles cases in Wisconsin. 'As of Sept. 4, 2026, there have been 136 confirmed and six probable cases in the outbreak in Grant, Iowa, and Lafayette Counties. There have been a total of 144 cases in Wisconsin so far in 2026,' DHS said in an update. All of the confirmed and probable cases are contained to just three counties in southwestern Wisconsin. 'DHS, in coordination with Grant County Health Department, Iowa County Health Department, and Lafayette County Health Department, are working to identify and notify people who may have been exposed to the measles virus,' DHS added. The Department of Health Services also updated its dashboard with a breakdown of who has tested positive for the measles. DHS says 47.9% of cases are among children between the ages of 5 and 17. Another 38.9% of measles cases are among adults. DHS says four people have been to the hospital with the measles, and no one has died. There is, however, no information on where or how the outbreak began. 'At this time, the investigation has not identified locations in public settings for which a full list of exposed people cannot be obtained,' DHS said. 'Those who are most at risk are those who are not vaccinated or don't know their vaccination status. If you believe you have been exposed to measles and are not immune, remain at home and monitor for symptoms.' The CDC on Friday said there are now 3,134 confirmed measles cases in 47 states and Washington, D.C. Last year, the CDC said there were 2,289 measles cases for the entire year.