The Maricopa County Department of Public Health (MCDPH) has announced a new measles case, raising concerns about local transmission. With this latest case, the total number of confirmed measles cases in Maricopa County for 2026 has reached 15.
The newly reported case is connected to a previously confirmed local case without any travel history or known exposure source, indicating that the infection likely originated within the county. This situation underscores the continuous risk of measles spreading locally and highlights the critical need for vaccination and early detection of symptoms.
In instances where individuals exposed cannot be tracked down, public notifications are issued. These alerts inform those who may have been in contact with an infectious person in public places, enabling them to take protective actions. MCDPH will continue updating the public through media channels and its online list of public exposure sites as more exposure sites are identified.
Public exposure sites
Individuals who visited the following locations on the specified dates and times may have been exposed to measles. It is crucial to monitor for symptoms. Should symptoms appear, individuals are urged to remain at home and contact a healthcare provider. They should inform the provider of their symptoms and potential measles exposure to avoid further spreading.
The measles virus can linger in the air for up to two hours, and the listed exposure times account for this duration. The information provided is accurate as of May 13, 2026, and individuals should remain vigilant during this period.
| Location | Date | Time | Last Day of Symptom Watch |
|---|---|---|---|
| NEW: Arizona Athletic Grounds Building A 6321 S. Ellsworth Rd. Mesa, AZ 85212 |
Tuesday, May 5 | 3:00 p.m.-9:00 p.m. | Tuesday, May 26 |
| Wednesday, May 6 | 8:30 a.m.-4:00 p.m. | Wednesday, May 27 | |
| Thursday, May 7 | 8:30 a.m.-1:00 p.m. | Thursday, May 28 | |
| NEW: Pecan Lake Entertainment 25004 S. 206th St. Queen Creek, AZ 85142 |
Wednesday, May 6 | 6:00 p.m.-9:00 p.m. | Wednesday, May 27 |
| NEW: Club Dance Recital 22149 E. Ocotillo Rd. Queen Creek, AZ 85142 |
Friday, May 8 | 3:30 p.m.-10:45 p.m. | Friday, May 29 |
Recommendations for Individuals at Exposure Sites
- Verify your vaccination records. Ensure your immunization against measles is current. Those who have not had measles or received the MMR vaccine may be at risk and should consult a healthcare professional about getting vaccinated. The MMR vaccine is a safe and effective defense against measles.
- Remain alert for symptoms, which typically manifest 7 to 12 days post-exposure, but can take up to 21 days. Symptoms include:
- High fever (> 101°F)
- Red, watery eyes
- Cough
- Runny nose
- A red, blotchy rash that begins on the face at the hairline and spreads downward. See photos of measles.
- Certain individuals, such as children under 12 months, pregnant women, and those with weakened immune systems, may qualify for post-exposure prophylaxis (PEP). Consult your healthcare provider for more information.
- If symptoms develop, stay home and contact a healthcare provider. Call in advance to inform them of your symptoms and potential measles exposure to avoid exposing others.
Prevention and Treatment
While measles cannot be treated, it is preventable through vaccination. The MMR vaccine is typically administered in two doses during childhood. Adults should have at least one dose of the vaccine post-one year of age. Individuals born before 1957 or who had measles as a child are presumed immune. In light of the local outbreak, MCDPH advises early vaccination for infants aged 6-11 months in addition to the standard doses at ages 1 and 4-6 years, following CDC guidelines.
Measles is extremely contagious and can remain airborne for up to two hours. Approximately 90% of unvaccinated individuals exposed to measles will contract the virus. There is no treatment for measles, and it can lead to severe long-term health issues, such as subacute sclerosing panencephalitis (SSPE), a rare brain infection that may surface years after the initial infection.
Healthcare providers are encouraged to remain vigilant for unvaccinated patients presenting with fever and rash, especially if they have known exposure. It is mandatory for healthcare providers to report suspected measles cases within 24 hours to their local health department.
Key Measles Information
- Vaccination remains the best defense against measles and its severe consequences.
- Unvaccinated individuals face a 90% infection risk if exposed.
- Vitamin A does not prevent measles.
- Vaccinated individuals who contract measles typically experience milder symptoms.
- MMR vaccines are accessible through primary care providers, community health centers, and pharmacies. Locate low and no-cost vaccine resources.
- Measles has no cure and can result in severe outcomes.
- Supportive care is available for measles patients, but no treatments exist to alleviate symptoms or shorten the infection duration.
- Though less common, measles can lead to death.
- Measles is highly infectious.
- Infected individuals can spread measles before symptoms appear.
- Residents should verify their MMR and other vaccination statuses.
- Immunization records are accessible through myIR.
- MCDPH CARES Team offers assistance at (602) 506-6767, Monday to Friday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.
- If uncertain about vaccination status, consult a healthcare provider for guidance.
For further details on measles, visit Maricopa.gov/measles.
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