Articles & Education

Measles is a highly contagious virus that spreads easily and can make people very sick. It usually starts with flu-like symptoms — fever, cough, runny nose, and red, watery eyes —   followed by a red rash that spreads across the body. While many recover, measles can cause serious complications, especially in young children and people with weakened immune systems.

Right now, the U.S. is facing a measles outbreak. The number of confirmed cases has already more than doubled compared to last year. The outbreak has led to both hospitalizations and multiple deaths. The current hospitalization rate is 12%.

Health officials are especially concerned because fewer people are getting vaccinated. To stop the spread of measles, about 95% of the population needs to be protected. But in Missouri, only 90% of kindergarteners had their measles shots at the start of the school year — well below the level needed for community protection.

Most measles cases in this outbreak — 97% — involve people who weren’t vaccinated or don’t know if they were. The measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR) vaccine is the best way to protect yourself and your family. Two doses are about 97% effective at preventing measles.

If you suspect someone has measles, don’t wait for lab results — report it right away to your local health department or call the Missouri Department of Health at 800-392-0272 (available 24/7).

Additional resources on measles are available.

• Missouri Hospital Association: Outbreaks and Emerging Infectious Diseases
• Centers for Disease Control and Prevention: Measles Landing Page
• Missouri Department of Health and Senior Services: Measles in Missouri