In a recent announcement on Sunday, Colorado health officials confirmed that two residents of El Paso County have tested positive for measles. The Colorado Department of Public Health and El Paso County Public Health reported that both individuals were unvaccinated and are currently recovering at home. This outbreak highlights the importance of vaccination and public awareness of measles symptoms.
Health officials are urging anyone who visited the following locations during the specified times to closely monitor themselves for symptoms of measles for the next 21 days. It is also recommended to avoid public gatherings during this period to prevent further spread of the disease:
Love’s Travel Stop/Carl’s Jr, 748 22 Road, Grand Junction: Tuesday, May 27 from 6:00 to 10:00 p.m. Maverick Gas Station, 2588 Airport Road, Colorado Springs: Wednesday, May 28 from 9:00 to 11:30 a.m. King Soopers, 1750 W. Uintah Street, Colorado Springs: Saturday, May 31 from 8:30 a.m. to 12:45 p.m.Officials have outlined the common symptoms of measles, which typically appear about 10 to 14 days after exposure. Individuals should be vigilant for:
Fever Cough Runny nose Red eyes A characteristic rash that usually begins on the face and spreads to the rest of the bodyThe MMR vaccine (Measles, Mumps, and Rubella) is highly effective in providing protection against measles. Health officials strongly encourage vaccination to prevent the spread of this contagious disease.
Anyone who was present at the listed locations during the exposure times and begins to experience measles symptoms should take immediate action. It is crucial to contact a healthcare provider by phone to discuss potential exposure. For individuals without a regular healthcare provider, it is advisable to call an urgent care center or emergency department, informing them of possible measles exposure.
This outbreak has now resulted in a total of six confirmed cases linked to an out-of-state traveler who flew while infectious. Among these, four cases involve passengers on the flight (three residents of Colorado and one individual from another state), alongside the two El Paso County residents who were at Denver International Airport during the exposure period.
As Colorado continues to monitor the situation, health officials emphasize the critical role of vaccination in protecting community health and preventing future outbreaks of measles.
