An individual with measles passed through Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport, potentially exposing travelers on January 29. The Maricopa County Department of Public Health (MCDPH) is actively cooperating with federal and state partners to inform those at risk.
Dr. Nick Staab, chief medical officer at MCDPH, stated, “As measles outbreaks continue nationally and in Arizona, including in Maricopa County, identifying and sharing information about exposures remains an important part of routine public health efforts.” He emphasized the contagious nature of measles and the necessity for prompt response.
So far, three measles cases have been confirmed in Maricopa County residents this year.
Active Public Exposure Sites
MCDPH maintains a list of public exposure sites where individuals might have encountered the virus. The virus can linger in the air for up to two hours after an infected person has left. Below are the locations and times of possible exposure:
| Location | Date | Time | Watch for symptoms through this date |
|---|---|---|---|
| NEW: Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport, all of Terminal 4 | January 29, 2026 | 4:00 p.m.–8:30 p.m. | February 19, 2026 |
| Arizona Athletic Grounds 6321 S Ellsworth Rd, Mesa, AZ 85212 Spectator areas (i.e., bleachers and viewing areas) around the baseball/softball fields |
January 23, 2026 | 8:00 a.m.–4:00 p.m. | February 14, 2026 |
| January 24, 2026 | 4:00 p.m.–8:00 p.m. |
Recommended Actions for Exposed Individuals
- Verify your vaccination status. Ensure your immunization records reflect protection against measles. Those who haven’t had measles or received the MMR vaccine should consult their healthcare provider.
- Monitor for symptoms, which often appear 7-12 days post-exposure, but may take up to 21 days. Symptoms include:
- High fever (> 101°F)
- Red, watery eyes
- Cough
- Runny nose
- A red, raised, and blotchy rash that starts on the face at the hairline and progresses down the body. View photos of measles.
- If symptoms develop, remain at home, and contact a healthcare provider for guidance and testing. Inform them about your symptoms and potential measles exposure beforehand to minimize further spread.
Prevention and Vaccination
Measles can be prevented through the MMR vaccine, administered in two doses during childhood. Adults should have at least one dose post-one year of age. For those at higher risk such as healthcare workers, two doses are advised. According to CDC guidance, MCDPH suggests early MMR vaccination for infants aged 6-11 months amid the Maricopa County outbreak, in addition to the standard doses at ages 1 and 4-6 years.
There is no cure for measles, and it can result in long-term health issues. Healthcare providers should be vigilant in identifying unvaccinated patients with fever and rash and report suspected cases within 24 hours to local health authorities.
Key Facts about Measles
- Vaccination is the most effective protection against measles.
- Exposure to measles results in a 90% infection rate for the unvaccinated.
- Vitamin A does not prevent measles.
- Vaccinated individuals who contract measles experience milder symptoms.
- MMR vaccines are available at many healthcare locations. Locate low and no-cost vaccine resources.
- There is no treatment for measles, and it can have serious consequences.
- Supportive care is available, but it does not alleviate symptoms or shorten the infection period.
- In rare instances, measles can be fatal.
- Measles is extremely contagious.
- Infected individuals can transmit the virus before they show symptoms.
- Residents should verify their immunization records to ensure they are current on MMR and other vaccines.
- Access immunization records at myIR through the Arizona Department of Health Services.
- MCDPH CARES Team offers assistance at (602) 506-6767, Monday-Friday from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.
- If vaccination status is uncertain, consult a healthcare provider about further steps.
For detailed information on measles, visit Maricopa.gov/measles.
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Media availability: Virtual interviews will be available on Monday, Feb. 9, 2026, from 1:00-2:00 p.m. Please contact Courtney Kreuzwiesner to schedule.
Media contact: Courtney Kreuzwiesner, 602-540-5473, c.kreuzwiesner@maricopa.gov
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