The St. Louis County Department of Public Health confirmed a third measles case tied to exposure on a Chicago-bound train on Aug. 27 and has published a list of local sites the patient visited, including Busch Stadium and a popular bar. Two other passengers from the same train were diagnosed earlier this week. The CDC reports 3,471 confirmed U.S. cases in 2026 and warns kindergarten MMR coverage has fallen to 92.4%, below the ~95% herd immunity threshold. Officials urge residents to check vaccinations, monitor for symptoms, and call a provider before seeking in-person care if exposed.
Third Measles Case Linked to Aug. 27 Chicago-Bound Train; Busch Stadium Named as Exposure Site
A third person in St. Louis has tested positive for measles after exposure on a Chicago-bound train on Aug. 27, the St. Louis County Department of Public Health said. The department has published a list of locations the patient visited during a two-day stay, including Busch Stadium and a popular bar, and is urging residents to check vaccination records and monitor for symptoms.
Two other passengers from the same train were diagnosed earlier this week. Local and state health officials are working to identify and notify potential contacts who may have been exposed.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has reported 3,471 confirmed measles cases in the U.S. this year — the highest total in 35 years. A fourth death, reported last week in Pennsylvania, makes 2026 the deadliest year for measles so far this century.
The CDC also warns that kindergarten measles-mumps-rubella (MMR) vaccination coverage has fallen to 92.4%, below the roughly 95% coverage generally associated with herd immunity.
"Vaccination is one of the most effective ways to protect ourselves, our families, and our community from measles," said Dr. Kanika Cunningham, director of the Saint Louis County Department of Public Health. "We encourage residents to review their vaccination status, monitor for symptoms, and contact their healthcare provider before seeking care if they believe they may have been exposed."
Common measles symptoms include high fever, cough, runny nose, red or watery eyes, and a spreading rash. Symptoms typically appear 7–14 days after exposure. Anyone who believes they may have been exposed should call their healthcare provider before visiting a clinic or emergency department so staff can take precautions to limit further spread.
For the full list of reported exposure locations and latest guidance, visit the St. Louis County Department of Public Health website or the CDC.
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