First Measles Case of 2025 Confirmed in Missouri

Jefferson City, Mo. (KFMO) - The Missouri Department of Health and Senior Services (DHSS) has confirmed the state’s first measles case of 2025.

According to health officials, the case was identified in a person who recently traveled internationally and began experiencing symptoms shortly after returning to Missouri. The individual is currently receiving medical care, and public health officials are working to notify anyone who may have been exposed.

The department did not immediately release the patient’s location, citing privacy reasons, but emphasized that containment efforts are underway.

Measles is a highly contagious viral disease that spreads through coughing and sneezing. Symptoms typically appear 7 to 14 days after exposure and include high fever, cough, runny nose, red eyes, and a characteristic rash.

“Vaccination is the best protection against measles,” said DHSS Director Paula Nickelson. “We urge all Missourians to make sure their MMR (measles, mumps, and rubella) vaccinations are up to date, especially as international travel continues to increase.”

Health officials are asking anyone who develops symptoms and believes they may have been exposed to call their healthcare provider before visiting a clinic or hospital, to prevent further spread.

Missouri recorded multiple measles cases in 2024, prompting renewed emphasis on vaccination campaigns. The CDC reports that measles cases are on the rise nationwide this year, driven in part by declining immunization rates in some communities.

More information on measles symptoms and vaccination is available at health.mo.gov.