With measles cases increasing in Missouri and flu season getting underway, Webster County health officials are encouraging residents to take a few minutes to check their vaccination records.
Scott Allen, administrator and county health officer for the Webster County Health Unit, said the concern comes as diseases once considered uncommon are again getting attention from public health officials.
Missouri reported six measles cases during all of 2025, Allen said. So far this year, that number has nearly doubled.
While the overall number remains relatively small, Allen said measles can be serious, especially for children.
Measles is also highly contagious. The illness can cause complications including pneumonia, and young children are among those at greater risk of complications.
Allen said the message from the Health Unit isn't simply to tell everyone to get every available vaccine.
Instead, he encourages residents to talk with someone they trust who has medical training.
That could be a family doctor, pharmacist or one of the public health nurses at the Webster County Health Unit.
When someone comes to the Health Unit to update vaccinations, Allen said staff first review the person's medical history and recommended vaccines.
Nurses then talk with the patient about the potential benefits and risks before a decision is made.
“Talk to a trusted medical provider,” Allen said.
He said people should rely on qualified medical professionals when making those decisions rather than information found through anonymous sources on social media.
Allen compared vaccination to creating a firebreak around a home during dry weather.
Clearing brush away from a house doesn't guarantee a fire won't reach it, he said, but it creates a layer of protection. Vaccination works in a similar way by reducing the chance of becoming sick and helping slow the spread of disease.
The warning comes as Webster County also begins another flu season.
Allen said the county's first reported influenza case of the season was recorded about two weeks ago.
Residents who aren't sure whether their vaccinations are current can contact the Webster County Health Unit for help reviewing their records and determining which vaccines may be recommended.
Allen said the Health Unit has several funding sources available to help cover vaccinations. As a result, many people who qualify for vaccines through the department can receive them without being charged for the service.
For Allen, the goal is to give residents reliable information and let them make an informed decision about their health.
“We can help you find which vaccines are good for you,” he said.
