Marina
A confirmed measles case has been reported involving an out-of-state visitor to the St. Louis Aquarium on April 30, 2025, prompting a health alert from local authorities.
The individual, a resident of southern Illinois, visited the aquarium between 1:00 PM and 6:00 PM, raising concerns about potential exposure to the highly contagious virus among other visitors and staff.
Understanding the Exposure
The City of St. Louis Department of Health has confirmed that the infected individual also visited a nearby restaurant on the same day. While no secondary cases have been reported as of now, health officials emphasize the importance of vigilance.
Dr. Alexander Garza of SSM Health highlighted that measles is significantly more contagious than COVID-19, underscoring the need for immediate attention and preventive measures.
National Context: Rising Measles Cases
This incident occurs amid a nationwide surge in measles cases. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), as of May 22, 2025, there have been 1,046 confirmed measles cases across 31 states, marking the highest number since 2019.
Notably, 96% of these cases involved individuals who were unvaccinated or had unknown vaccination status.
Symptoms and Risks
Measles is a highly contagious viral disease that spreads through respiratory droplets. Symptoms typically appear 7 to 14 days after exposure and include:
- High fever
- Cough
- Runny nose
- Red, watery eyes
- Rash that starts on the face and spreads downward
Complications can be severe, especially in young children and immunocompromised individuals, leading to pneumonia, encephalitis, and even death.
Preventive Measures
The most effective way to prevent measles is through the Measles, Mumps, and Rubella (MMR) vaccine. The CDC recommends:
- First dose at 12-15 months of age
- Second dose at 4-6 years of age
Adults who are unsure of their vaccination status should consult with their healthcare provider. In light of the recent exposure, individuals who visited the St. Louis Aquarium on April 30 between 1:00 PM and 6:00 PM are advised to:
- Check their vaccination records
- Monitor for symptoms until May 21, 2025
- Contact a healthcare provider if symptoms develop
Key Information Table
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Exposure Date | April 30, 2025 |
| Location | St. Louis Aquarium, 1:00 PM – 6:00 PM |
| Confirmed Case | Out-of-state visitor from southern Illinois |
| Symptoms to Monitor | Fever, cough, runny nose, red eyes, rash |
| Vaccination Status | Check MMR vaccine records |
| Action if Exposed | Consult healthcare provider if symptoms arise |
The confirmed measles case linked to the St. Louis Aquarium highlights the importance of vaccination and public awareness.
As measles cases rise nationally, ensuring up-to-date immunizations and prompt response to potential exposures are crucial steps in safeguarding public health.