‘It’s not a matter of if, but when’: Kansas City braces for measles

KANSAS CITY, Mo. (KCTV) - The risk of a measles outbreak in Kansas City is real with declining vaccination rates, and local health officials are preparing a coordinated response.

This comes as the U.S. experiences its largest measles outbreak since 2019. Health experts say the nearest confirmed case is just a short drive away in the Branson area.

Representatives from the Kansas City Health Department, Kansas City Public Schools, Children’s Mercy, and University Health say they are planning a collaborative and proactive response.

“It’s a matter of not if we get cases here in Kansas City, it’s when we get cases in Kansas City,” said Naser Jouhari, deputy director of the Kansas City Health Department.

Officials say herd immunity could protect people who are unable to receive the vaccine, including infants under the age of 12 months and people with weakened immune systems. A 95% vaccination rate is required to achieve that protection.

The Kansas City Health Department reported that two ZIP codes with school districts near Waldo and Lake Waukomis fell below the 95% mark during the 2024–25 school year. In the Northland, vaccination rates were as low as 84% in areas near Staley Farms. Experts cite both religious exemptions and vaccine hesitancy as key contributors.

“When you receive all of that information all at the same time and you are worried about the safety of your child, there is a tendency to panic, and when you panic, the default is typically inaction,” said Alex Francisco, the Kansas City Health Department’s chief science officer.

READ MORE: Fact Check: Surprising numbers surrounding measles cases in the U.S.

University Health officials noted the measles vaccine is administered as part of the MMR vaccine. The first dose should be given between 12 to 15 months of age, and the second between 4 to 6 years old, before a child starts school.

Symptoms of measles include a rash, fever, dehydration, and difficulty breathing. The disease is highly contagious and can spread quickly among unvaccinated people or those living and traveling in exposed communities.

“The measles infections or measles outbreaks in any community have a trickle-down effect. It takes children out of school, takes them out of daycare, it takes people out of work,” said Health Director Marvia Jones. “It is also especially hazardous to not just infants who are too young to be vaccinated, but also people who have any type of immunocompromised state.”

Kansas City Measles Press Conference
The Kansas City Health Department hosts a press conference to address the growing measles threat and prevention measures.
Posted by KCTV5 News Kansas City on Tuesday, April 29, 2025

Last week, Kansas City joined a national lawsuit challenging proposed cuts to federal health programs from the Trump administration. Jones said the city doesn’t plan to let those cuts affect their local response and is allocating resources to boost vaccinations.

“We’re going to do what we need to do locally to keep our residents safe,” she said. “Yes, all of those things have effects, and we are working hard to make sure we continue to provide the service and protection to our residents.”

Local pediatricians say vaccine misinformation has led some parents to opt out. They’re fighting fear with facts.

“It’s so infectious,” said pediatrician Dr. Haluck. “I would say, ‘Why take that chance with your child’s health and their future?’ Get vaccinated. They’re safe and effective.”

The Kansas City Health Department plans to offer extended hours for measles vaccinations starting May 14. Clinics will be open Wednesdays from 8 a.m. to 7 p.m. and Saturdays from 8 a.m. to noon.