Colorado health officials have confirmed a case of measles in an out-of-state resident, according to the Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment (CDPHE) and the Gunnison Department of Health and Human Services. The agencies are notifying the public about possible exposure locations in Almont and Gunnison.
“Getting vaccinated is the best way to protect yourself, your family, and your community. Measles is highly contagious and can sometimes lead to serious health problems, but it is a vaccine-preventable disease. Symptoms include fever, cough, runny nose, red eyes, and a characteristic rash that usually starts several days later on the face and spreads. The measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR) vaccine provides strong protection,” CDPHE stated.
Officials identified two locations where people may have been exposed: Taylor Park Trading Post at 23044 Co Rd 742 in Almont on Saturday, July 12 from 4 to 7 p.m., with symptoms potentially developing through August 2; and Gunnison Valley Health Hospital at 711 N. Taylor St. in Gunnison from Wednesday, July 16 through Thursday, July 17 between 3 p.m. and 10 a.m., with symptoms possibly appearing through August 8.
The agencies recommend that anyone who was present at these locations during those times monitor for symptoms for up to three weeks after exposure. Those who have not received the MMR vaccine should be especially vigilant. Receiving the MMR vaccine within 72 hours after exposure can help prevent or lessen illness severity. Immunoglobulin may also be used within six days of exposure under certain circumstances.
“Based on available information, anyone who was in the following locations during the dates and times listed may have been exposed to measles and should monitor for symptoms for 21 days after exposure and consider avoiding public gatherings or high-risk settings. Monitoring for symptoms is especially critical for people who have not been vaccinated with the MMR vaccine. MMR vaccine, given within 72 hours after exposure, can prevent or reduce the severity of infection. Immunoglobulin (IG), if administered within six days of exposure, may also be used in some circumstances. Locations will be updated, as necessary,” officials said.
People exposed to measles typically develop symptoms seven to twenty-one days after contact with an infected person. Anyone experiencing symptoms such as fever or rash who visited one of these sites during the specified periods should call their healthcare provider before seeking care in person to avoid further exposures.
“If you were at any of these locations during the exposure window and develop symptoms, immediately contact your health care provider by phone. If you do not have a provider, call an urgent care center or emergency department and explain that you may have been exposed to measles. Calling ahead helps prevent additional exposures,” officials advised.
Further information about measles—including symptom details, transmission methods, vaccination recommendations—and updates about current cases can be found on the CDPHE’s measles webpage.
