Kansas Declares End of Measles Outbreak but Remains Vigilant

The recent measles outbreak in southwestern Kansas has officially concluded, according to the Kansas Department of Health and Environment (KDHE). However, health officials emphasize that the risk of new cases persists, especially considering global and national measles trends. The outbreak, which began in January, affected ten counties—Finney, Ford, Grant, Gray, Haskell, Kiowa, Morton, Pawnee, Seward, and Stevens—resulting in 87 confirmed cases. Notably, over 80% of those affected were children, with more than 90% of cases occurring in unvaccinated individuals. Eight patients required hospitalization, though no fatalities were reported.

The KDHE states that more than 42 days—two incubation periods—have passed since the last confirmed case, leading to the official declaration of the outbreak's end. As a result, health officials are no longer recommending early measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR) vaccinations for infants aged 6 to 11 months. Instead, providers are advised to follow the standard vaccination schedule.

Secretary Janet Stanek expressed gratitude towards public health professionals and healthcare providers for their efforts during the outbreak. The initial outbreak impacted multiple counties, and the total number of cases in Kansas for this year has reached 90, including three additional cases outside the southwestern region, reported in Reno and Sedgwick counties. These cases, reported in July, are not linked to the previous outbreak.

Despite the end of this outbreak, officials caution that measles remains a threat, with cases still reported across the United States and worldwide. The KDHE and local health agencies continue to monitor the situation closely and urge healthcare providers to remain vigilant, testing for measles in symptomatic patients. As the new school year begins, families are encouraged to ensure their vaccinations, including the MMR vaccine, are up-to-date—a critical defense against this highly contagious disease.

Nationally, measles cases are reported to be slowing; however, the CDC has documented 1,375 cases across 41 states so far this year, marking the highest number in over three decades. The outbreaks account for 87% of cases, with a total of 173 hospitalizations and three deaths. Health officials emphasize ongoing vigilance and vaccination to prevent future outbreaks.

Sources: https://medicalxpress.com/news/2025-08-measles-outbreak-kansas-health.html