From Dr. Stacy Dashiell, Chief Medical Officer, Rice Community Health

As the Chief Medical Officer at Rice Community Health, I want to address the recent measles outbreak affecting our state and provide essential information to help protect your families.

Current Situation in Kansas

As of March 26, 2025, the Kansas Department of Health and Environment (KDHE) has reported 23 confirmed measles cases across six southwestern counties: Stevens, Morton, Grant, Haskell, Gray, and Kiowa. These cases are potentially linked to larger outbreaks in Texas and New Mexico. (Source)

What Is Measles?

Measles is a highly contagious viral disease that spreads through respiratory droplets when an infected person coughs or sneezes. The virus can linger in the air for up to two hours, making it easy to catch in shared spaces.

Typical symptoms include:

High fever

Cough

Runny nose

Red, watery eyes

A red rash that starts on the face and spreads downward

Complications can be serious, especially for young children, pregnant women, and those with weakened immune systems. One in four children with measles end up hospitalized.

A Message from Dr. Dashiell

“Measles is a vaccine-preventable disease. The measles vaccine is 97% effective and very safe. Measles complications can be severe; one in four children with measles may end up hospitalized. Immunizations for those with and without insurance can be received on a walk-in basis at Sterling Family Care.”

The Importance of the MMR Vaccine

The Measles, Mumps, and Rubella (MMR) vaccine is your child’s best defense:

First dose at 12 to 15 months

Second dose at 4 to 6 years

If your child has not yet received these vaccines, it’s not too late. In light of the current outbreak, infants as young as six months in affected areas are encouraged to receive the vaccine early. Contact your healthcare provider for guidance.

What Parents Should Do

Check your child’s vaccine records. If they are not fully vaccinated, schedule an appointment to get your child vaccinated.

Be aware of symptoms and call your provider if you suspect exposure.

Limit exposure to large public gatherings if your child is unvaccinated or immune-compromised.

Practice good hygiene: handwashing, covering coughs/sneezes, and staying home when sick all help reduce the spread.

Community Support Is Here

Vaccines are available locally—even for families without insurance.

Sterling Family Care offers walk-in immunizations for individuals with or without insurance—no appointment needed.
Lyons Family Care provides vaccines for individuals with insurance—an appointment is needed.
Rice County Health Department offers vaccines for all individuals, regardless of insurance status. They’re open Monday through Friday, 7:30 AM to 4:30 PM. Please call ahead to schedule your appointment at (620) 257-2171.