The Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment (CDPHE) and the Weld County Department of Public Health and Environment have confirmed a case of measles in a school-aged child from Weld County. The child, who was not vaccinated with the measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR) vaccine, developed symptoms after traveling to another state where a measles outbreak is ongoing. Officials stated that there are no known public exposure locations related to this case.
Additionally, CDPHE and the Montezuma County Public Health Department have reported two more cases of measles among residents of Montezuma County. Both new cases involve unvaccinated household contacts of an earlier confirmed case. These individuals were quarantined during their infectious period, so officials say there are no known public exposure sites linked to these cases either.
Dr. Rachel Herlihy, Deputy Chief Medical Officer and State Epidemiologist, emphasized the importance of vaccination during the holiday season: “With the holiday season in full swing, getting vaccinated is the best way to protect yourself, your family, and your community from measles,” said Dr. Herlihy. “Holiday gatherings often involve close contact indoors and travel to see family and friends, creating an environment where measles can spread easily. Ensuring you are up to date on the MMR vaccine is critical to protecting vulnerable loved ones you may visit, including infants too young to be vaccinated and family members with weakened immune systems.”
Measles is described by health officials as highly contagious but preventable through vaccination. Common symptoms include fever, cough, runny nose, red eyes, followed by a rash that starts on the face before spreading.
People exposed to measles usually develop symptoms between 7 and 21 days after exposure. Health authorities advise anyone experiencing symptoms who may have been exposed to call their healthcare provider or an urgent care center before visiting in person in order to reduce further exposures.
Further information about symptoms, transmission risks, vaccination recommendations for measles as well as updates on current cases can be found on the CDPHE measles webpage.
