Potential Measles Exposure at MCI Airport Terminal

Potential Measles Exposure at MCI Airport Terminal

Published on November 14, 2025

Original source: Kansas City, Missouri News Release

The Kansas City, Missouri Health Department was notified of a confirmed case of measles in a Kansas resident who was present in a terminal at the Kansas City International Airport (MCI) on November 5 from approximately 2 a.m. until noon, and on November 10, from 2 a.m. until 4 a.m.

Measles is a highly infectious respiratory disease caused by a virus. Measles is spread through the air by breathing, coughing, or sneezing. Measles can be spread to others from four days before to four days after the rash appears. Measles cannot be spread to others by an exposed person unless that person develops measles disease symptoms.

If you are up to date on your Measles, Mumps, and Rubella (MMR) vaccine, your risk of getting sick is very low. The best way to prevent measles is to get your MMR vaccination. Those not vaccinated or infants under the age of 1 who are too young to be vaccinated are at the highest risk for contracting measles.

"We want people to stay calm but stay aware," said Dr. Marvia Jones, Director of the Kansas City Health Department. "Measles is highly contagious, but vaccination offers strong protection. If you haven't received your MMR vaccine, now is the time to get it. I also urge people to avoid travel if they haven't been vaccinated."

Any exposed person would be expected to develop symptoms between November 12 - December 1. The symptoms of measles generally include a rash that appears 7-21 days after exposure. Measles symptoms typically begin with:

• A high fever
• Cough
• Runny nose
• Red, watery eyes

Three to five days after symptoms begin, a rash typically appears. The rash typically appears as flat, red spots that initially break out on the face, near the hairline, and then spread downward to the neck, trunk, arms, legs, and feet.

We are urging people who are ill or exhibiting symptoms similar to measles to stay home unless they are seeking medical attention. Before visiting a healthcare provider, please call ahead and let the provider know of the measles exposure so that steps can be taken to protect other patients and staff, especially if you have a fever and rash.

Click here for more information about measles.

Residents can receive Measles vaccinations at the Kansas City Health Department Immunization Clinic from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Friday. The measles vaccines are free for children under 18.

Community members unsure of their vaccination status or in need of vaccines are encouraged to contact their primary care provider or call the Health Department at 816-513-6008.

About the Kansas City Health Department
The Kansas City, Missouri Health Department works to protect and improve the health of all Kansas City residents through community outreach, prevention, education, and partnerships. Learn more at kcmo.gov/health.

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