TOPEKA (KSNT) – Local health officials are reporting a measles exposure event at a Topeka hospital.
Officials with the Shawnee County Health Department (SCHD) said in a press release the exposure period occurred between 10:15 p.m. on Sunday, Sept. 20 and 4:30 a.m. on Monday, Sept. 21 at the Stormont Vail Health Emergency Room located at 1500 SW 10th Ave. in Topeka. People who were in this location during this time frame are encouraged to watch for possible symptoms of measles.
“We are working closely with the Shawnee County Health Department and KDHE to respond to the reported measles exposure,” said Taylor Bugg, a spokeswoman for Stormont Vail Health. “We encourage the public to follow the guidance provided, including monitoring for symptoms, ensuring vaccinations are up to date, and contacting a healthcare provider before entering a medical facility if suspected measles symptoms develop.”
SCHD staff said people who are susceptible to measles and who were at the hospital during the time specified should avoid working in an adult home, correctional facility or health care facility and attending or working at any schools, childcare facilities or adult day care facilities until at least Oct. 12. SCHD staff also encouraged these individuals to avoid contact with high-risk people such as pregnant women, infants and those who are not vaccinated for measles.
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People are considered susceptible to measles if they were born in 1957 or later and meet any of the following conditions:
- Not age-appropriately vaccinated
- Lack laboratory evidence of immunity
- Lack documentation of a previous measles infection
“There are no known cases in Shawnee County at this time,” said Dr. Erin Locke, Health Officer for Shawnee County. “We are working closely with Stormont Vail Health and KDHE to respond to this exposure and ensure the public has the information they need. Vaccination remains our best defense against the spread of measles, and I encourage everyone to ensure they are immune to protect themselves and their loved ones.”
Staff with the Kansas Department of Health and Environment (KDHE) recently confirmed a third case of measles in Kansas for 2026.
Measles can spread quickly, with symptoms usually appearing seven to 14 days after initial exposure, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). Measles can cause serious health issues for children younger than five years old, with common issues including ear infections and diarrhea while more serious health conditions like pneumonia and encephalitis are also possible.
CDC staff reports measles can spread when an infected individual coughs or sneezes. Common symptoms include high fever, cough, runny nose, rash and red, watery eyes.
For more information about measles and how to get vaccinated, click here.
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