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Update on Ongoing Measles Outbreaks
Measles is a very contagious viral infection that can lead to serious complications. As of March 17, 2025, there have been no confirmed measles cases reported in Sedgwick County since 2017.
National Measles Situation
Nationally, as of March 21, a total of 378 measles cases were reported by the Centers for Disease and Prevention (CDC) across 18 jurisdictions: Alaska, California, Florida, Georgia, Kansas, Kentucky, Maryland, Michigan, New Jersey, New Mexico, New York City, New York State, Ohio, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, Texas, Vermont, and Washington.
There have been three outbreaks (defined as three or more related cases) reported in 2025. Notably, 90% of cases (341 of 378) are outbreak-associated. In comparison, 16 outbreaks were reported during 2024 and 69% of cases (198 of 285) were outbreak-associated.
Measles Case in Kansas
As of March 21, the Kansas Department of Health and Environment (KDHE) has confirmed 10 cases of measles in the southwestern part of the state. Data from KDHE indicate all 10 cases are in a combination of Stevens County (<6 cases), Morton County (<6 cases), and Grant County (<6 cases) (KDHE suppresses case counts of less than 6 in a county). Most of the cases were unvaccinated, and all are school-aged children. This marks the first measles outbreak in Kansas since 2018.
Measles Outbreak in Texas
The Texas Department of State Health Services (DSHS) is reporting an outbreak of measles in the South Plains region of Texas (near Lubbock).
As of March 21, 2025, 309 cases have been identified since late January. Of these, 40 of the patients have been hospitalized, and one death occurred in a school-aged child who was unvaccinated and had no known underlying health conditions. In addition, four measles cases have been reported from Harris, Rockwall, and Travis counties in Texas, but they are not linked to the outbreak in the South Plains region of Texas.
Measles Outbreak in New Mexico
The New Mexico Department of Health (NMDOH) is reporting an outbreak of measles in Lea County, near Gaines County, Texas. This outbreak is linked to the Texas outbreak. As of March 21, 2025, 42 cases have been identified since February 2025. One death occurred in an adult, but limited information has been released about this person.
First Cases of Measles Reported in Oklahoma
On March 12, the Oklahoma State Department of Health (OSDH) reported two probable measles cases based on the facts that the individuals reported exposure associated with the Texas and New Mexico outbreak and reported experiencing symptoms consistent with measles. There is no risk to the public at this time, as the individuals self-isolated when they developed symptoms.
Respiratory Virus Updates
Every year, respiratory viruses such as influenza (flu), COVID-19, and respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) cause illnesses, hospitalizations, and deaths during the fall and winter virus season.
Many respiratory viruses share common symptoms, like coughing, sneezing, runny or stuffy nose, sore throat, fever, and chills. Other symptoms include fatigue (tiredness), decreased appetite, vomiting, diarrhea, headache, and muscle or body aches. Sever infections can lead to serious lung infections, such as pneumonia.
What do I do if I have a respiratory virus?
- The CDC recommends you stay home and away from others until at least 24 hours after both your symptoms are getting better, and you have not had a fever (and are not using fever-reducing medications). After that time, you can resume normal activities, but should use added precautions (wearing a mask, staying away from those at severe risk for illness, etc.) for another 5 days.
How do I protect myself from a respiratory virus?
- The best way to prevent respiratory viruses are through vaccinations. Vaccinations are available for flu, COVID-19, and RSV (for select groups eligible for RSV vaccine). Find out more about immunizations for respiratory viruses at https://www.cdc.gov/respiratory-viruses/prevention/immunizations.html or view the image below.
- Other prevention methods include washing your hands and staying home when you are sick.
Influenza Report for Week Ending March 15
Nationally influenza activity remains elevated but has decreased for five consecutive weeks. The percentage of influenza-like illness (ILI) visits to selected outpatient clinics was at 1.95% (Sedgwick County).
Influenza (also known as “flu”) is a contagious respiratory illness caused by influenza viruses. It can cause mild to severe illness, and at times can lead to death. An annual flu vaccine is the best way to protect against flu. Vaccination helps prevent infection and can prevent serious outcomes in people who get vaccinated but still get sick with flu. The CDC recommends that everyone ages 6 months and older get a flu vaccine.
Emergency Department Surveillance-Sedgwick County Ending March 15
Notifiable Disease Investigations
