By Jennifer Stultz
Tri-County Tribune Editor
jstultz@cherryroad.com
The Kiowa County Health Department has released a special caution about measles as there has been cases reported in nearby states, as well as in southwest Kansas
“It’s important to stay informed about the recent measles outbreaks,” the health department released in a social media post. “Measles is a highly contagious virus, and the best way to protect yourself and those around you is through vaccination.”
For those traveling this spring, especially to crowded places, vaccinations against the measles is highly recommended.
Make sure you’re up to date with your vaccinations. For those who received the inactivated measles vaccine between 1963-1967, it’s now recommended to get a booster dose of the live attenuated measles vaccine for added protection,” the health department stated. “Let’s do our part to stop the spread and keep our communities safe.”
As of March 21, 2025, the Kansas Department of Health and Environment (KDHE) reported ten (10) cases of measles within Grant, Morton and Stevens counties. All these cases are in children aged from 0-17. Nine (9) of the individuals were not vaccinated, and one (1) is under-vaccinated having only received 1 out of the 2 doses of the recommended MMR vaccine. There have been no hospitalizations or deaths among the cases. Due to the highly contagious nature of measles, additional cases are likely to occur in the outbreak area in Kansas and in surrounding counties, especially among those that are unvaccinated.
Cases of measles also continue to increase in other states. As of March 21, 2025, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) is reporting a total of 378 measles cases in 15 jurisdictions: Alaska, California, Florida, Georgia, Kansas, Kentucky, Maryland, Michigan, New Jersey, New Mexico, New York City, New York State, Ohio, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, Texas, Vermont and Washington. Most of these cases are occurring in children (76%) and almost all are either unvaccinated or have an unknown vaccination status (95%). Fifty (50) persons have been hospitalized and two (2) have died.
KDHE advises health care providers to be on high alert for patients who have: (1) febrile rash illness and symptoms consistent with measles (for example, cough, coryza, or conjunctivitis) particularly among unvaccinated individuals, or (2) have recently traveled, especially internationally or domestically to areas with ongoing measles outbreaks, or (3) have frequent contact with unimmunized individuals in a congregate setting (e.g. attends daycare).
Measles is a highly contagious virus that spreads through the air when an infected person coughs or sneezes. It can cause fever, cough, runny nose, red eyes, and a rash that spreads over the body. Serious complications can occur, including pneumonia, brain swelling, and even death.
The best way to prevent getting sick is to be immunized against measles. Two doses of the MMR (measles, mumps, rubella) vaccine are highly effective at preventing measles.
