Virginia Measles Cases Reach 10; Eastern Region Sees Rise in Norovirus-Like Illness
Virginia Beach, VA – March 7, 2026 – State health officials report 10 measles cases in Virginia as norovirus-like outbreaks push up ER visits in the Eastern region.
Virginia has confirmed 10 measles cases so far in 2026, with most linked to Northern Virginia, while Hampton Roads remains without a reported case this year. At the same time, emergency departments in Eastern Virginia are seeing elevated visits for gastrointestinal illness tied to norovirus-like outbreaks.
Measles Cases Rise Statewide
According to reporting from WHRO citing state health officials, Virginia’s measles count has reached 10 cases this year. Epidemiologists described the pattern as sporadic and largely travel-related rather than sustained community spread.
No cases have been confirmed in Hampton Roads as of late February. Public health officials continue to stress that strong vaccination coverage helps prevent wider spread when an infected traveler enters a community. The CDC maintains its recommendation that children receive two doses of the measles, mumps and rubella vaccine on the routine schedule.
State data referenced in the report show that kindergarten vaccination rates vary by locality. Virginia Beach’s measles vaccination coverage was cited at roughly 89%, below the statewide average of about 95%.
Norovirus-Like Outbreaks in Eastern Virginia
Separately, the Virginia Department of Health has reported an uptick in norovirus-like outbreaks statewide, with 13 outbreaks logged as February ended. In the Eastern region, which includes Hampton Roads, gastrointestinal illness accounted for about 12% of emergency department and urgent care visits during the week of Feb. 15 to Feb. 21.
Two outbreaks were reported in the Eastern region during that period. Norovirus can spread quickly in schools, workplaces and households, particularly during late winter months.
State guidance emphasizes thorough handwashing with soap and water and careful cleaning of contaminated surfaces after vomiting or diarrhea episodes, as alcohol-based hand sanitizer may be less effective against norovirus.
What Residents Should Know
While Virginia Beach has not reported measles cases this year, state trends highlight the importance of staying current on routine immunizations. Families may also notice busier urgent care and emergency departments during spikes in stomach illness.
Residents are encouraged to follow updates from the Virginia Department of Health and local health providers as respiratory and gastrointestinal viruses continue circulating this season.
Sources:
If you have urgent symptoms, seek medical care. For general questions, talk with a licensed clinician.
