As measles cases continue to rise nationally, the Health Department is taking proactive steps to protect the community. In a press conference, Director Dr. Marvia Jones announced coordinated efforts with hospitals, schools, childcare providers, and public health leaders to prepare for potential local outbreaks.
“We are not waiting for measles to arrive in Kansas City before taking action,” said Dr. Jones. “Our partnerships are active, our messaging is clear, and our community response is already in motion.”
Proactive Measures in Place:
Vaccination Access Expanded: The Health Department will extend vaccination clinic hours every Wednesday until 7 p.m. and offer services on select Saturdays starting May 18. MMR vaccines are free for children under 18.
Healthcare Readiness: Children’s Mercy and University Health have activated internal response plans, implemented screening protocols, and launched education campaigns to assist providers in recognizing measles symptoms, many of whom have never seen a case firsthand.
School & Childcare Coordination: Kansas City Public Schools is actively identifying unvaccinated students, coordinating on-site vaccinations, and reinforcing immunization outreach to prevent educational disruption.
Data-Driven Focus: Health officials identified three zip codes (64114, 64151, 64155) with MMR vaccination rates below the 95% threshold for community immunity. Targeted engagement is underway to increase vaccination rates and address rising exemption trends.
A Call to Parents and Guardians:
Health experts stressed that the MMR vaccine is safe, effective, and widely available. The vaccine prevents not only fever and rash but also severe complications like pneumonia, brain swelling, and even death.
Currently, there are no confirmed measles cases in Kansas City, but local transmission has occurred in surrounding states and regions. The last reported Missouri case was in Taney County (Branson area). More than 800 cases have been confirmed nationally across 29 states.
Community members unsure of their vaccination status or in need of vaccines are encouraged to call the Health Department at 816-513-6108 or visit KCMO.gov/health.
