How students can stay safe from measles after a recent case in Kansas City

  UMKC health officials are weighing in on the recent case of measles going around in Kansas City.

  Ordinarily, most people are vaccinated against measles during the infant stage by the MMR vaccine, but some remain unvaccinated. 

  “Measles remains one of the most contagious diseases, with the potential for serious complications,” said Dr Marvia Jones, Director of the Kansas City Health Department. “We are working swiftly to identify the source of exposure and notify anyone who may have been exposed.”

  Sarah Love, director of student health services at UMKC, gave her insight on the recent outbreak.

  “The main concern is that measles spreads quickly among people who are not vaccinated. The good news is that vaccination is very effective, and public health officials are actively monitoring the situation,” said Love.

  Love oversees the university’s Student Health Clinic and wellness initiatives, including medical care, prevention programs and health education that support the overall well-being of students.

  “Measles spreads through the air when an infected person coughs or sneezes. The virus can linger in the air for up to a couple of hours, which is why it spreads so easily and quickly in close-contact environments,” said Love.

  Symptoms of measles include a high fever, coughing, runny nose, red, watery eyes, tiny white spots found inside the mouth and a blotchy rash on the skin that spreads from head to toe.

  The rash typically appears three to five days after the symptoms begin, signifying that the recipient has measles.

  Any concerns that were raised about measles on campus were solved with answers from Love.

  “Students shouldn’t panic, but it’s always good to stay informed. For students who are fully vaccinated, the risk of measles is very low,” said Love.

  Students at UMKC should not be concerned if they have had the MMR vaccine, but if they are unsure whether they have measles or not, they should go see Roo Wellness.

  “Students should make sure their vaccinations are up to date. If someone isn’t sure about their vaccination status, they can come to the student health clinic,” said Love. “We can draw a simple blood test called a titer to check for immunity to measles and determine whether vaccination is needed.”

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