Public health officials in Colorado have confirmed a case of measles in an adult resident of Mesa County. The individual had not received the measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR) vaccine and has no known link to other recent cases or travel outside the state. Authorities believe this may indicate community transmission in the Grand Junction area.
Mesa County Public Health is currently investigating the case. Measles is a highly contagious disease that can be prevented through vaccination. Health officials stress that getting vaccinated remains the most effective way to protect individuals and communities from infection.
Measles typically begins with symptoms such as fever, cough, runny nose, and red eyes. A rash usually appears several days later, starting on the face and spreading across the body. Those who have not been vaccinated but may have been exposed are advised to get the MMR vaccine within 72 hours to help prevent illness. In some situations, immunoglobulin treatment within six days of exposure may also reduce severity or prevent illness.
The Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment has identified several locations where potential exposures may have occurred:
– Landmark Baptist Church and School at 1600 Ute Ave., Grand Junction: Thursday, Aug. 7 from 8:30 a.m. to 10:30 p.m., and Friday, Aug. 8 from 11 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.
– Chick-fil-A at 522 Bogart Lane, Grand Junction (dine-in and drive thru): Friday, Aug. 8 from 3 p.m. to midnight.
– Burger King at 1730 N Ave., Grand Junction (dine-in only): Saturday, Aug. 9 from 1–4 p.m.
– Community Hospital Emergency Department at 2351 G Road, Grand Junction: Monday, Aug. 11 through Tuesday, Aug. 12 from 7 p.m.–12:45 a.m., and Thursday, Aug. 14 from 5:18–7:33 p.m.
People who were present at these locations during the specified times should monitor for symptoms for up to three weeks after possible exposure dates listed by health officials. If symptoms develop, individuals are urged to contact their healthcare provider before visiting any medical facility so steps can be taken to avoid further spread.
Further information about measles symptoms, transmission methods, vaccine recommendations, current case updates for Colorado in 2025, and an updated list of exposure sites can be found on the CDPHE measles webpage.
“Measles is a highly contagious, but preventable disease. Getting vaccinated is the best way to protect yourself, your family, and your community.”
