Local Health Officials Announce Measles Exposure at Collinsville Church

GraniteCityGossip.com February 17, 2026

Health departments in Illinois and Missouri are alerting residents after confirming that an out‑of‑state traveler with measles passed through several public locations last week, including a church service attended by some families from the Granite City area.

According to public health officials, the individual traveled through St. Louis Lambert International Airport on February 7 between 5 p.m. and 7 p.m. The person was in Terminal 2, visited baggage claim, and later rode Parking Spot shuttle #3 to the parking area. Passengers who may have been exposed during the flight are being contacted directly by health authorities.

The following morning, on February 8, the same individual attended Good Shepherd Lutheran Church in Collinsville between 8 a.m. and 12:15 p.m. and church leaders have already notified their congregation, and the Illinois Department of Public Health is reaching out to anyone who may have been in the building during that time.

Residents who were at any of the listed locations are encouraged to monitor for symptoms for 21 days after possible exposure. Anyone who begins to feel ill should isolate immediately and call a healthcare provider before arriving at a clinic or hospital, to avoid exposing others. Suspected cases should be reported to local public health agencies.

Measles typically begins with fever, cough, runny nose, and red or watery eyes. Small white spots may appear inside the mouth two to three days after symptoms start, followed by a rash.

Good Shepherd Lutheran Church draws worshippers from Collinsville, Maryville, Glen Carbon, Granite City, and surrounding communities, so local officials are urging residents to stay aware and take precautions if they were present during the exposure window.