Although there are not any cases in the area, the Reno County Health Department wants to emphasize the need to be prepared as measles cases and outbreaks have increased in the United States over the past few years. Currently, there is an outbreak in western Texas which has spread into New Mexico, totaling over 120 cases so far. Almost all of the cases have been among unvaccinated children or those who had not received a second vaccination. There has been one child who has died.
Measles is one of the most contagious infectious diseases in the world that can lead to both hospitalization and death. Though symptoms typically include high fever, cough, red eyes, and rash, complications can include ear infections, pneumonia, and acute encephalitis (swelling of the brain).
Per the Kansas Department of Health and Environment (KDHE), only 89% of kindergarteners in Reno County had received 2 doses of the MMR vaccine for the 2023-2024 school year, which is below the target level. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), at least 95% of the population needs to be vaccinated for measles or have immunity to the virus to prevent outbreaks and protect vulnerable individuals. With this in mind, the Reno County Health Department is committed to educating the community and promoting measures to strengthen overall immunity and reduce the risk of an outbreak like the one in Texas.
Children should receive 2 doses of the MMR vaccine to be fully protected, one at 12 to 15 months old and the second at 4 to 6 years old. There is a catch-up vaccination schedule if you know your child is unvaccinated or behind on vaccinations. Children between 6 and 11 months old can receive one MMR dose if they are traveling internationally or to an area where there is a known outbreak but will need to receive 2 doses on or after their first birthday. If you were born before 1957 then you are considered to be immune to measles, but if you work in high-risk settings, such as in healthcare, you should consider getting vaccinated. If you received a measles vaccine from 1963-1967, you should check the type of vaccine you received. You may need to receive 1 or 2 more doses to be fully protected. Also, if you have a serious illness that lowers your immune system, such as TB, HIV, or cancer, you should discuss with your doctor your immunity status to measles and if you need additional vaccinations.
