The Kansas Department of Health and Environment (KDHE) has confirmed a case of measles in Stevens County, marking the first reported case in the state since 2018.
The case, identified in a local resident, has prompted public health officials to notify individuals who may have been exposed and issue guidance on preventing further spread.
Measles, a highly contagious viral disease, spreads rapidly through the air when an infected person coughs, sneezes, or even breathes nearby. 
Given its high transmission rate, state health officials are urging residents to review their vaccination status and be aware of the symptoms.
What Are the Symptoms of Measles?
Measles symptoms typically appear 10 to 14 days after exposure and may include:
- High fever (above 101°F)
- Cough, runny nose, and red, watery eyes
- Small white spots inside the mouth (Koplik spots)
- A red rash that starts on the face and spreads across the body
The rash typically develops three to five days after symptoms begin, and infected individuals can spread the virus up to four days before and after the rash appears.
Who Is at Risk?
Certain groups are at higher risk for severe complications, including:
- Infants under 12 months who have not yet received the measles vaccine
- Older adults and individuals with weakened immune systems
- Pregnant women, as measles can lead to serious complications for both mother and baby
Measles can cause serious complications, including pneumonia, brain swelling (encephalitis), and in rare cases, death.
The best way to prevent infection is through vaccination.
How to Protect Yourself: The Importance of the MMR Vaccine
The Measles, Mumps, and Rubella (MMR) vaccine is the most effective way to prevent measles. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends:
- Children receive their first dose at 12-15 months and a second dose at 4-6 years.
- Adults born after 1957 should have at least one dose of the MMR vaccine unless they have immunity from a previous infection.
- Travelers and healthcare workers may require additional doses for added protection.
Kansas health officials strongly encourage unvaccinated individuals to get vaccinated immediately.
What to Do If You’ve Been Exposed
If you have been exposed to measles and are not immune:
- Contact a healthcare provider immediately to determine if you need post-exposure treatment.
- Avoid public places for 21 days to prevent further spread.
- Monitor for symptoms, and if they develop, call ahead before visiting a clinic or hospital to avoid exposing others.
KDHE is working with local health officials to track and notify individuals who may have been exposed, urging the public to remain vigilant and informed.
Why This Matters
Kansas’ first measles case in over five years is a stark reminder of the importance of vaccination and public health awareness.
While the U.S. eliminated measles as an endemic disease in 2000, outbreaks continue to occur, especially in under-vaccinated communities.
This latest case highlights the urgent need for continued vaccination efforts, rapid response to potential outbreaks, and public cooperation in stopping the spread.
For more information, visit the Kansas Department of Health and Environment website.
