Confirmed Sixth Measles Case in Maricopa County: Public Health Alert

The Maricopa County Department of Public Health (MCDPH) has identified a new measles case, marking the sixth occurrence in the county for the year 2026. This latest case is particularly concerning as it has no connection to prior cases and no identifiable source of exposure, underscoring the persistent threat of local transmission.

When potential exposure sites cannot be traced to specific individuals, public notifications are issued to alert anyone who may have been present during the same time as the infectious person. The MCDPH will use media outlets and update their online list of public exposure sites to inform the public of any new locations.

Public Exposure Sites

Individuals who visited the following venues during the specified dates and times should be vigilant for symptoms. The measles virus can remain airborne for up to two hours, and the times mentioned include this period.

As of April 16, 2026, a new exposure location has been added to the existing list, which is detailed below.

People who were at these locations during the listed dates and times should:

1. Check your vaccination status. Verify your immunization records to ensure you are protected against measles. Individuals lacking previous measles infection or the measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR) vaccine may be at risk and should consult with a healthcare provider about vaccination.
2. Watch for symptoms, which typically appear seven to 12 days after exposure but may take up to 21 days. Symptoms include:

   • High fever (> 101°F)
   • Red, watery eyes
   • Cough
   • Runny nose
   • A rash that is red, raised, and blotchy. The rash usually begins on the face at the hairline and proceeds downwards. View photos of measles.
   • In some cases, individuals exposed to measles may be eligible for post-exposure prophylaxis (PEP) to reduce illness risk. This applies to certain children under 12 months, pregnant women, and individuals with compromised immune systems. Contact your healthcare provider for advice.

3. If symptoms develop, stay at home, and call a healthcare provider to seek medical care and testing. Call ahead to inform them about your symptoms and possible measles exposure to facilitate safe medical consultation without exposing others.

Measles cannot be treated, but it can be prevented

Prevention of measles is possible with two doses of the MMR vaccine, typically given during childhood. Adults require at least one dose of the MMR vaccine administered after the age of one. Those born before 1957 or who had measles in childhood are usually considered immune. In line with CDC guidance due to the local measles outbreak, MCDPH advises early MMR vaccination for infants aged 6-11 months, in addition to the regular doses at 1 year and 4-6 years.

Measles is an extremely contagious virus, remaining in the air for up to two hours. About 90% of unvaccinated individuals exposed to the virus will become infected. There is no treatment for measles, and it can lead to severe long-term health issues, like subacute sclerosing panencephalitis (SSPE), a brain infection that may emerge years after the initial measles infection.

The MCDPH urges healthcare providers to remain vigilant for unvaccinated patients presenting with fever and rash, especially if they have known exposure. Providers are required to report suspected measles cases within 24 hours to the local health department.

Measles Facts

• Vaccination is the most effective means to prevent measles infection and its severe consequences.

  • Unvaccinated individuals have a 90% infection risk if exposed.
  • Vitamin A does not prevent measles.
  • Vaccinated individuals who contract measles experience milder symptoms than those unvaccinated.
  • MMR vaccines are accessible at various primary care offices, community health centers, and pharmacies. Find low and no cost vaccine resources.

• Measles has no treatment and can lead to severe outcomes.

  • While supportive care is available, no treatments exist to alleviate symptoms or shorten infection duration.
  • Although rare, measles can lead to death.

• Measles is highly contagious.

  • Infected individuals can transmit measles before symptom onset, even when feeling well.

• Residents can verify their immunization status for MMR and other vaccines.

  • Visit myIR through the Arizona Department of Health Services.
  • The MCDPH CARES Team is available for assistance at (602) 506-6767, Mon.-Fri. from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.
  • If you’re unsure about your MMR vaccine doses, consult your healthcare provider for guidance.

For more information on measles, visit Maricopa.gov/measles.