On April 18th, 2025, Missouri Department of Health and Senior Services announced its first measles case.
Measles cases are rising again across the country. So far in 2025, over 800 cases have been reported in 25 states. Most of these cases are in children and teens under 19. Almost all of them—96%—were not vaccinated or didn’t know if they were. At least 85 people have been sent to the hospital, and three people have died or may have died from measles.
Why Vaccination Matters
When at least 95% of people in a community get the measles vaccine (called the MMR vaccine), it helps protect those who can’t get it—like babies, people with serious health issues, or weak immune systems. This is called herd immunity.
In Missouri, only about 90% of kindergarteners got their MMR shot during the 2024–2025 school year. That’s below the level needed to stop the spread. That means some areas are at higher risk for outbreaks.
In Dent County as of 2024 only 87.94% of kindergartener were vaccinated making our county at higher risk for outbreaks.
The Best Protection: The MMR Vaccine
The MMR vaccine protects against measles, mumps, and rubella. It’s safe and has been used in the U.S. since the 1970s.
- Children should get two doses: one at 12–15 months, and another at 4–6 years.
- People traveling outside the U.S. should make sure they’re vaccinated before they go.
- One dose gives 93% protection; two doses give 97% protection for life.
- Side effects are usually mild, like a fever, sore arm, or rash.
Measles Can Be Serious
Measles isn’t just a mild rash and fever. It can be very dangerous, especially for young children and people with weak immune systems.
- About 6% of people get pneumonia, which causes most measles-related deaths.
- Measles can cause brain swelling (encephalitis), which may lead to brain damage.
- Other problems include ear infections, seizures, and hospitalization.
- There is no specific treatment for measles. In some cases, people may die, even with medical care.
How Measles Spreads
Measles spreads very easily—much more than a cold or flu.
- If 10 unvaccinated people are around someone with measles, 9 of them will get sick.
- It spreads through coughing and sneezing.
- The virus can live in the air for up to 2 hours.
- You can also catch it by touching something the virus landed on.
- A person is contagious for 4 days before the rash shows up and 4 days after it starts.
Who Is at Risk?
Measles is often thought of as a childhood illness, but anyone who isn’t protected can get it.
- Most cases are in children, teens, and young adults.
- If you haven’t had the MMR vaccine or the disease itself, you’re at risk.
- Make sure your child gets both recommended doses.
Signs and Symptoms
Measles symptoms usually come in two stages:
- First stage (1–2 weeks after exposure):
Runny nose, cough, fever, and red eyes that are sensitive to light. - Second stage (3–7 days later):
High fever (103–105°F), red blotchy rash (starting on the face at the hairline and spreading), and tiny white spots inside the mouth.
The rash usually lasts 4–7 days.
Some people may develop serious problems like pneumonia or swelling in the brain. In rare cases, people may die.
How to Get the Vaccine
The MMR vaccine is covered by most insurance plans.
Dent County Health Center provides vaccinations and no appointment is required.
If your child doesn’t have insurance, they may qualify for a free vaccine through the Vaccines for Children Program.
When to Go to the Emergency Room for Measles
If you or your child has measles and any of the symptoms below, go to the emergency room right away:
- Trouble breathing or breathing much faster than normal
- Signs of severe dehydration (like a dry mouth or nose, or peeing much less than usual)
- Feeling confused, very tired, or too weak to move
- For young children: blue color around the lips, no tears when crying, very low energy, or refusing to eat
Important:
Have someone call the emergency room before you go. Let them know a person with measles is coming. This helps them get ready and keep others safe by seeing you away from other patients.
Ready to get vaccinated?
Visit us at 1010 E. Scenic River Blvd to receive your MMR vaccine walk-ins are always welcomed.
If you have questions about the vaccine or how to determine if you are fully vaccinated, please feel free to give us a call at 573-729-3106.
