Colorado health officials have confirmed a case of measles in an out-of-state resident and are alerting the public about possible exposure locations in Almont and Gunnison. The Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment (CDPHE) and the Gunnison Department of Health and Human Services released details on the incident.
“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 listed 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 p.m. to 7 p.m.
– Gunnison Valley Health Hospital at 711 N. Taylor St., Gunnison from Wednesday, July 16 through Thursday, July 17 between 3 p.m. and 10 a.m.
Anyone who was present at these places during those times should monitor for symptoms for up to three weeks after potential exposure. Those not vaccinated with MMR are especially urged to watch for signs of illness such as fever or rash. The MMR vaccine given within three days of exposure can help prevent or lessen infection severity; immunoglobulin treatment may also be considered within six days after contact.
“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,” according to CDPHE.
People typically develop symptoms seven to twenty-one days after being exposed to measles. If symptoms occur following presence at one of these sites during the specified windows—such as fever or rash—health authorities recommend contacting a healthcare provider by phone before visiting any medical facility in person.
“People exposed to measles typically develop symptoms 7 to 21 days after exposure. 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 said.
For more information about this case—including symptom details, transmission facts, vaccination guidance—and updates on possible new exposure sites in Colorado this year visit the CDPHE measles webpage.
