DHSS Issues Health Alert On Increased Measles Activity In Midwest

The Missouri Department of Health and Senior Services issued a health alert encouraging health care providers to remain aware of increased measles activity across the Midwest and review existing measles response plans.

Missouri is not currently experiencing a measles outbreak. As of Sept. 4, six cases had been reported in the state in 2026. However, outbreaks are occurring in neighboring states, and measles cases have increased nationally.

DHSS encourages health care providers to:

• consider measles in patients with compatible symptoms and recent travel to an area with an outbreak or a known or suspected exposure;
• immediately isolate patients with suspected measles and avoid having them remain in waiting rooms or other common areas;
• ensure health care personnel have evidence of measles immunity and facilities can quickly access employee immunization records;
• encourage patients without evidence of immunity to remain up to date on measles, mumps and rubella vaccination, particularly before travel to areas with active outbreaks; and
• notify their local public health agency or DHSS of suspected cases to coordinate testing and investigation.

Health care providers with suspected cases or questions may contact their local public health agency or DHSS at (573) 751-6113 during regular business hours or (800) 392-0272 for 24/7 assistance.

Hospitals are encouraged to review the full DHSS health alert for additional information about symptoms, testing recommendations, infection prevention measures and specimen collection requirements.