Public health officials in Colorado have confirmed another case of measles in a Mesa County resident. The individual’s vaccination status is unknown, and authorities believe this person may have been exposed to the same source as the first reported case in Mesa County last week. Mesa County Public Health is continuing its investigation.
Additionally, the Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment (CDPHE), along with the Denver Department of Public Health and Environment and Denver International Airport (DEN), are alerting the public about a possible measles exposure at DEN. An out-of-state traveler who had a confirmed case of measles was present at gate C51 before boarding another flight at gate C50 on Tuesday, August 12.
“This incident serves as a reminder that travel in crowded public spaces, such as airports, increases the risk of exposure to various communicable diseases. It is important for everyone to stay up to date on their vaccinations, especially before traveling, to protect themselves and others,” said Dr. Rachel Herlihy, Deputy Chief Medical Officer and State Epidemiologist.
Measles is highly contagious but can be prevented through vaccination. The MMR vaccine remains the most effective way to protect individuals and communities from infection.
Symptoms of measles typically start with fever, cough, runny nose, and red eyes. A rash appears several days later, beginning on the face and spreading across the body. People who have not received the MMR vaccine can still get vaccinated within 72 hours after exposure to help prevent illness. In some cases, immunoglobulin treatment within six days may also reduce or prevent symptoms.
Health officials provided a list of locations where people may have been exposed during specific dates and times:
– Enjoy Church (720 Grand Ave., Grand Junction) on Sunday, Aug. 10 between 9 a.m.–12:45 p.m.
– Jimmy John’s (2502 Highway 6 and 50, Grand Junction) on Sunday, Aug. 10 between 11 a.m.–2 p.m.
– Appleton Clinic (607 25 Road #201, Grand Junction) on Monday, Aug. 11 between 1:30–4:40 p.m.; Wednesday, Aug. 13 between 10:50 a.m.–1:40 p.m.; Friday, Aug. 15 between 1:54–5 p.m.
– Chick-fil-A (522 Bogart Lane, Grand Junction) on Monday, Aug. 11 between 3–9 p.m.
– Denver International Airport C Concourse (8500 Peña Blvd., Denver) on Tuesday, Aug. 12 between 4:30–7 p.m.
– Maverik Gas Station (1103 US-50, Fruita) on Tuesday, Aug. 12 between 5–7:30 p.m.
– McDonald’s (1212 North Ave., Grand Junction) on Tuesday, Aug. 12 between 5:30–9 p.m.
Officials advise anyone who was present at these locations during those times to monitor for symptoms for up to three weeks after exposure. If symptoms develop—especially among those unvaccinated—individuals should contact their healthcare provider by phone before visiting any medical facility to help prevent further spread.
Further updates will be provided as necessary through official channels including CDPHE’s measles webpage for information about symptoms and current exposure sites.
