The Kansas City, Missouri Health Department and The Missouri Department of Health and Senior Services reported Tuesday on a confirmed case of measles in an unvaccinated adult, according to a statement from the department. There has not been a case of measles in a Kansas City resident since 2018.
“Measles remains one of the most contagious diseases, with the potential for serious complications. The good news is that MMR vaccination is an effective way to prevent measles.” said Dr. Marvia Jones, Director of the Kansas City Health Department. “We are working swiftly to identify the source of exposure and notify anyone who may have been exposed. We urge residents to review their vaccination status and consult their healthcare provider if they have symptoms such as fever, cough or rash.”
Keep in mind this measles vaccination guidance:
People who are at risk for measles infection are those who have not been vaccinated.
If you were born before 1957 or have been vaccinated with the MMR, you are unlikely to get measles.
If you have not been vaccinated or are unsure, call your healthcare provider or the Kansas City Health Department at 816-513-6152.
Symptoms typically appear 7-14 days after contact with the virus. Common symptoms include:
- High fever (may spike to more than 104°F)
- Cough
- Runny nose
- Red, watery eyes
- Tiny white spots with bluish-white centers found inside the mouth (Koplik spots)
- Blotchy rash on the skin which spreads from head down to feet
Anyone with measles symptoms should call their healthcare provider before visiting to avoid spreading the virus.
Three to five days after symptoms begin, a rash typically appears. The rash typically appears as flat, red spots that initially break out on the face, near the hairline, and then spread downward to the neck, trunk, arms, legs, and feet.
We are urging people who are ill or exhibiting symptoms similar to measles to stay home unless they are seeking medical attention. Before visiting a healthcare provider, please call ahead and let the provider know of the measles exposure so that steps can be taken to protect other patients and staff, especially if you have a fever and rash.
Residents can receive Measles vaccinations at the Kansas City Health Department Immunization Clinic from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Friday. The measles vaccines are free for children under 18.
Community members unsure of their vaccination status or in need of vaccines are encouraged to contact their primary care provider or call the Health Department at 816-513-6008.
For more information on measles, please visit:
- Kansas City Health Department: Protect Yourself and Our Community from Measles | CITY OF KANSAS CITY | OFFICIAL WEBSITE
- Missouri Department of Health and Senior Services (MODHSS): Measles | Health & Senior Services
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC): https://www.cdc.gov/measles/