Measles

Update

As of April 2025, the Kansas Department of Health and Environment (KDHE) reports a measles outbreak of 37 confirmed cases across eight counties in the southwestern region of the state. There are no confirmed cases in Douglas County or surrounding counties.Measles is a highly contagious viral disease that spreads through direct contact, respiratory droplets, and can remain airborne and on surfaces for up to two hours. Early symptoms include a high fever, cough, runny nose, and red, watery eyes, followed by a characteristic red rash that typically starts on the hairline and spreads downward to the rest of the body.

There is no specific treatment for measles. KDHE recommends vaccination as the best protection to prevent catching the disease. People at highest risk from exposure to measles are those who are unvaccinated, pregnant, have a weakened immune system, or infants under six months of age.

Kansas law mandates that suspected or confirmed cases of measles be reported. Stay home and call your healthcare provider or Lawrence Douglas County Public Health (LDCPH) at 785-856-7361. They will tell you when it is safe to be around others. Visit ldchealth.org for more information about measles and vaccination. Call LDCPH's clinic at 785-843-0721 to schedule a vaccination appointment. 

Please continue to follow healthy habits to prevent the spread of illness: cover coughs and sneezes, wash hands thoroughly and frequently, avoid sharing drinks or utensils, disinfect frequently touched surfaces, and stay home when ill. 

More Information About Measles:

Lawrence Douglas County Public Health

Kansas Department of Health and Environment

US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention