A measles outbreak has been confirmed in southwestern Kansas, with six cases reported so far. The affected counties are Grant and Stevens. According to the Kansas Department of Health and Environment (KDHE), all six cases involve unvaccinated individuals. This marks the first measles outbreak in Kansas since 2018.
The KDHE stated that early symptoms include fever exceeding 101 degrees Fahrenheit, runny nose, cough, and red, watery eyes. A red rash typically appears on the face and spreads to the body 10-14 days after exposure, but can appear as early as seven or as late as 21 days after exposure.
Measles is a respiratory disease spread through the air via breathing, coughing, or sneezing. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends getting the Measles, Mumps, and Rubella (MMR) vaccine to prevent it. Local health departments are notifying individuals who may have been exposed to the cases in Grant and Stevens counties.
Source: https://www.kwch.com/2025/03/20/6-measles-cases-reported-kansas-according-kdhe