Kansas City Health Officials Confirm First Case of Measles in KC Since 2018

Kansas City health organizations have reported a confirmed measles case in an unvaccinated adult. Photo credit: Shutterstock (Corona Borealis Studio).

Posted March 4, 2026

The Missouri Department of Health and Senior Services and the Kansas City Health Department have confirmed the first case of measles in Kansas City since 2018.

The two organizations announced the confirmed case of an unvaccinated adult on Tuesday.

“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.” Dr. Marvia Jones, Director of the Kansas City Health Department, said in a release. “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.”

People who are at risk for measles infection are those who have not been vaccinated.

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

Three to five days after symptoms begin, a rash typically appears.

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.

View more information on Measles prevention and treatment here.