St. Louis, Missouri — Health authorities are alerting the public to potential measles exposure linked to a recent incident at St. Louis Lambert International Airport and a church in nearby Collinsville. The Missouri Department of Health and Senior Services confirmed that an out-of-state individual carrying the measles virus arrived at the airport on a domestic flight earlier this month.
The infected person was at Terminal 2 and in the baggage claim area between 5 p.m. and 7 p.m. on February 7, before taking Parking Spot shuttle No. 3. Officials are directly notifying passengers on the implicated flight. The St. Louis Health Department is collaborating with state health partners to disseminate information and ensure public safety.
St. Louis Health Commissioner Victoria Anwuri emphasized the seriousness of measles, describing it as a highly contagious illness that can lead to severe complications. “Individuals experiencing symptoms must isolate themselves and reach out to their healthcare provider without delay,” she stated, advising that patients contact their providers prior to visiting to allow for adequate safety measures.
In Illinois, health officials indicated that the same individual may have additionally exposed congregants at Good Shepherd Lutheran Church in Collinsville. The Illinois Department of Public Health confirmed that services held between 8 a.m. and 12:15 p.m. on February 8 could have put attendees at risk. Church members have been informed and received guidance on protective measures to take.
Illinois Department of Public Health Director Sameer Vohra emphasized the importance of vaccinations, especially in light of this confirmed case, noting that it is a reminder of the ongoing need for preventive measures against measles. Vohra urged healthcare providers to consider measles diagnoses when encountering patients with relevant symptoms, instructing them to notify local health authorities promptly if they suspect a case.
Anyone who might have been exposed, particularly unvaccinated individuals, is urged to monitor for symptoms for up to three weeks post-exposure, indicating a potential risk period extending into late February. Initial symptoms of measles include fever, cough, runny nose, and inflamed eyes. The characteristic rash emerges three to five days after these symptoms begin, starting at the hairline and spreading throughout the body.
Measles poses serious health risks, including pneumonia and encephalitis, making it particularly perilous for young children, pregnant women, and those with compromised immune systems. The best defense against measles remains vaccination, with the MMR vaccine typically administered in early childhood. Adults who missed their vaccinations can consult their healthcare providers for catch-up shots.
Last year, Missouri reported seven confirmed measles cases, none occurring within the St. Louis area. Meanwhile, Illinois documented 14 cases statewide in 2025, highlighting the importance of community awareness and vaccination efforts to curb the spread of this preventable disease.