New WCHQ Maps Show Measles Vaccination Gaps Across Wisconsin, Highlighting Areas at Risk
Madison, WI – [February 12, 2026] — The Wisconsin Collaborative for Healthcare Quality (WCHQ) released maps showing measles vaccination rates across Wisconsin, highlighting areas at risk for outbreaks. County rates vary from 84.5% to 98.1%, with many communities falling below the 95% needed for herd immunity.
"These data offer an early warning system," said Gabrielle Rude, PhD, CEO, WCHQ. "They help focus prevention efforts where vaccination rates are low."
Using electronic health record data from health systems statewide, WCHQ analyzed measles vaccination rates from 2019 to 2025. The maps present coverage at both the county and ZIP code levels, offering one of the most detailed views of measles protection in Wisconsin to date.
Measles Remains a Serious Public Health Threat
The release of WCHQ’s vaccination maps comes as Wisconsin has confirmed three measles cases in 2026.
Measles is a highly contagious disease caused by the measles virus and can be especially dangerous for infants and young children.
The most effective protection against measles is the measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR or MMRV) vaccine. Two doses are approximately 97% effective and provide long-lasting protection against all known strains of measles.
Data-Driven Tools to Support Public Health Action
WCHQ’s maps allow stakeholders to identify clusters of lower coverage that may benefit from focused intervention via:
A detailed table of immunization rates by ZIP code is available, providing additional transparency and supporting local prevention efforts.
About WCHQ
Founded in 2004 by visionary leaders from Wisconsin’s healthcare community, the Wisconsin Collaborative for Healthcare Quality (WCHQ) is a voluntary, clinician-led organization committed to transparency, innovation, and collaboration. WCHQ publicly reports on the quality and affordability of healthcare services and provides its members—ranging from rural hospitals to integrated health systems—with actionable insights that drive performance improvement.
For more information about WCHQ’s quality improvement programs and statewide initiatives, visit www.wchq.org.
