A toddler from Arapahoe County, Colorado, has tested positive for measles after recently returning from international travel, according to health officials.
The child was not vaccinated against measles, and public health officials are now working to identify anyone who may have been exposed to the virus.
The Tri-County Health Department confirmed the case on Monday, and officials say the child may have been contagious between May 6 and May 12. During this time, the child visited several locations, and anyone present at those places during the same time may be at risk.
Health experts are asking people who were at these locations to check for symptoms and watch for any signs of measles for 21 days after possible exposure.
Measles symptoms usually start with fever, cough, runny nose, and red, watery eyes. After a few days, a rash appears that typically starts on the face and spreads to the rest of the body.
Measles is a highly contagious disease caused by a virus. It spreads through the air when an infected person coughs or sneezes.
It can remain in the air for up to two hours after the infected person leaves the area. Even if you don’t have direct contact, you can still get infected if you breathe in the virus particles left in the air.
The Tri-County Health Department says they are working closely with the Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment (CDPHE) to notify those who might have been exposed. People who are already vaccinated or have had measles before are usually protected. But those who haven’t received the measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR) vaccine are at risk.
Officials have released a list of locations the toddler visited while potentially contagious. These include medical clinics and public places in Arapahoe County. People who were in those places during specific times are being urged to monitor their health closely.
If you develop symptoms, it is important to call your healthcare provider before going to a clinic or hospital. This helps avoid exposing others in waiting rooms or hospital areas.
Doctors say the best way to prevent measles is through vaccination. The MMR vaccine is usually given in two doses – the first at 12 to 15 months of age, and the second at 4 to 6 years. The vaccine is very effective, and two doses can give around 97% protection against the virus.
In this case, the child had not received any MMR vaccine doses. Health officials are reminding parents to ensure their children’s vaccines are up to date, especially if they are traveling to countries where measles is still common.
The measles virus can lead to serious complications in young children. These include ear infections, diarrhea, pneumonia, and even brain damage. In some rare cases, it can be fatal.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) says measles was declared eliminated in the U.S. in 2000. However, it can still come back through travel and spread in communities where vaccination rates are low.
In 2024, the U.S. has already seen several outbreaks of measles linked to international travel. Health experts warn that travelers who are not vaccinated can bring the disease back and spread it to others, especially children too young to be vaccinated.
People who plan to travel abroad are encouraged to talk to their doctor about getting vaccinated. Even babies as young as 6 months can receive the vaccine early if they are traveling to high-risk areas.
The Tri-County Health Department continues to investigate and support anyone affected by this case. They are also asking the public to help stop the spread by staying informed and vaccinated.