KC area now has 13 measles cases, all apparently linked

The Kansas City area now has 13 confirmed cases of measles and two probable cases, the Kansas City Health Department said Monday.

All the cases appear to be linked to several cases reported in Clay County in May, a department spokesman said.

Symptoms of the highly contagious disease include fever, runny nose, cough and a rash all over the body. People who think they may have been exposed should contact their city or county health department.

“The best way to prevent measles is what we have known for years, make sure that you and your children are up to date on your vaccinations,” Lougene Marsh, director of the Johnson County Department of Health and Environment, said in a statement.

Alan Bavley, abavley@kcstar.com

This story was originally published June 9, 2014 at 5:49 PM with the headline "KC area now has 13 measles cases, all apparently linked."