The Maricopa County Department of Public Health (MCDPH) is alerting residents after identifying two additional measles cases among locals, with one case having no known exposure origin. This development marks the community spread of measles in the area, emphasizing the critical need for vaccination and vigilance in monitoring symptoms.
According to Dr. Nick Staab, chief medical officer for MCDPH, “For decades, we’ve had enough community immunity to prevent spread of measles like this. If you’ve been hesitating or wondering if you should get the measles vaccine, this is a reminder that measles can spread rapidly and can be very serious—and that you can protect yourself and those around you with a proven, effective vaccine.”
Potential Public Exposure Sites
Health officials have pinpointed three additional public locations where measles exposure may have occurred due to the recent cases. People who visited the following sites on the specified dates and times are advised to remain vigilant for symptoms:
| Location | Date | Time | Watch for symptoms through this date |
|---|---|---|---|
|
Target 1515 E. Warner Rd.
|
January 13, 2026
|
3:30pm-5:45pm
|
February 3, 2026
|
|
EOS Fitness 3025 S. Val Vista Dr.
|
January 13, 2026 January 15, 2026
|
4:45am-7:45am both days
|
February 5, 2026
|
|
Sam’s Club 1225 N. Gilbert Rd.
|
January 15, 2026
|
9:00am-11:30am
|
February 5, 2026
|
Understanding Measles Infectiousness and Prevention
Measles is an extremely contagious virus, capable of remaining airborne for up to two hours. An estimated 90% of unvaccinated individuals who encounter the virus will contract it. Potentially severe complications from measles include subacute sclerosing panencephalitis (SSPE), a serious brain infection that may develop years after initial infection.
The measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR) vaccine, administered in two doses during childhood, is highly effective at preventing measles. Adults need at least one MMR dose after the age of one. Per CDC guidelines during a local outbreak, MCDPH advises early MMR vaccination for infants aged 6-11 months, in addition to the standard doses at ages 1 and 4-6 years.
Dr. Staab emphasized, “Preventing continued spread of measles is a community effort. Raising immunization rates in our community will help us avoid future occurrences of community transmission like we are seeing now.”
Recognizing Measles Symptoms
Individuals potentially exposed to measles should monitor their health for symptoms, which generally appear seven to 12 days post-exposure but can take up to 21 days to manifest. Symptoms include:
- Fever, potentially reaching 104 °F or higher
- Red, watery eyes
- Cough
- Runny nose
- A red, raised, blotchy rash that starts on the face at the hairline and progresses downward, lasting five to six days.
Steps to Take if Symptoms Arise
Whether or not an individual recalls exposure, those developing symptoms should seek medical care and testing. It’s essential to call ahead and inform the healthcare provider of symptoms and possible exposure to prevent further spread in medical facilities.
MCDPH is advising healthcare workers to remain vigilant for unvaccinated patients with fever and rash, particularly if exposure is suspected. Suspected measles cases must be reported to local health authorities.
Vital Measles Facts
- Vaccination is the most reliable defense against measles and its severe consequences.
- Unvaccinated individuals have a 90% chance of infection upon exposure.
- Vitamin A does not prevent measles.
- Vaccinated individuals who contract measles will likely experience milder symptoms than those unvaccinated.
- There is no cure for measles, which can lead to serious outcomes.
- Supportive care is available, but no treatment exists to alleviate symptoms or shorten the infection duration.
- Though rare, measles can be fatal.
- Measles is highly contagious, often spreading before symptoms appear.
- Infected individuals may transmit the virus before they are aware of the illness.
- Residents should verify their immunization status regarding MMR and other vaccines.
- Visit myIR through the Arizona Department of Health Services.
- The MCDPH CARES Team offers assistance at 602-506-6767, Monday-Friday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.
- Consult a healthcare provider if unsure about having the recommended MMR doses.
For further details on measles, please visit Maricopa.gov/measles.
Read More Here
