An unvaccinated county resident reportedly contracted measles from within the community, prompting health officials in Mesa County to warn neighbors of possible exposure.
"The Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment said in a news release Friday afternoon that the new measles patient had not traveled outside the state or reported any other exposures to previously reported measles cases around Colorado." The state stated that Mesa County Public Health is conducting more investigation and that "the absence of a clear source of infection suggests that this case may be the result of community transmission in the Grand Junction area."
The new case raises the total number of measles cases in the state to 2025, with 13 of those cases involving patients whose vaccination status was unclear or who were not immunized. One case was a breakthrough following one dosage, and six of the instances involved individuals who had previously received two or more doses of the MMR vaccine.
According to the state statement, the new patient traveled extensively throughout Grand Junction while possibly spreading the disease. Officials also released a chart that details the locations and times that other people may have come into touch with the patient between August 7 and August 14. These include a Chick-fil-A, a Burger King, Landmark Baptist Church, and Grand Junction Community Hospital. To ensure they do not get their own symptoms, locals who may have visited those sites during those periods should minimize their social interactions for around 21 days. The immunizations are very effective, and measles is very contagious.
Residents should be aware of symptoms including fever, cough, runny nose, and red eyes, "followed by a rash that usually starts several days later on the face and spreads," if they are worried about contact.
Receiving an MMR vaccination within 72 hours of exposure is still beneficial for those who were exposed. State officials advise folks not to go unexpectedly to an emergency room or urgent care center if other Mesa County residents do experience symptoms. To prevent exposing others, they ought to contact their healthcare physician to find out their preferred arrangement.
