11-month-old girl in S'pore confirmed to have measles, 1st case involving child in preschool since stepped-up measures

An 11-month-old infant has been confirmed to have measles, the Communicable Diseases Agency (CDA) said in a statement on Feb. 24.

The agency was notified of the case on Feb. 17. This is the fifth measles case involving an infant below 12 months of age in 2026.

According to CDA, it is also the first case involving a child attending preschool since the agency stepped up measures to better contain and manage measles infections.

Recovering well

CDA said the infant is recovering well.

She attends a preschool in Singapore and was not yet due for the Measles, Mumps and Rubella (MMR) vaccination.

She has no known recent travel history or known contact with a confirmed measles case, CDA said.

The child had attended school during her infectious period.

Parents of children identified as close contacts have been notified by the preschool.

Epidemiological investigations are ongoing.

Close contacts identified

Of the close contacts, only four had neither received their measles vaccination nor were in the process of getting vaccinated.

Quarantine orders were issued to the four who were not vaccinated. However, their quarantine orders were rescinded upon receipt of vaccination or post-exposure prophylaxis.

Vaccinated close contacts have been advised to monitor their health and seek medical attention if symptoms develop, CDA said.

Casual contacts have also been advised to check their vaccination status, monitor their health, and seek medical care if symptoms appear.

Vaccination remains key

Vaccination remains the most effective way to prevent measles infection, CDA said.

The agency noted that 87 per cent of local measles cases recorded this year occurred in individuals who were not fully vaccinated.

They added:

"The MMR vaccine is highly effective and safe, and confers long-term immunity after completion of the recommended doses.

High vaccination coverage not only protects individuals but creates herd immunity within the Singapore population, that protects those who are unable to receive vaccination, such as infants under 12 months and severely immunocompromised individuals."

ECDA

The Early Childhood Development Agency (ECDA) said in a statement that they are aware of the measles case involving the 11-month-old infant.

They are working with CDA and the preschool operator to ensure the well-being of the remaining enrolled children and staff.

ECDA has also reminded the operator to ensure compliance with infection prevention and control measures.

ECDA added that they will continue to work closely with preschools and relevant agencies to safeguard the health and well-being of preschool children and staff.

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