A case of measles has been confirmed in a child living in Montezuma County, according to the Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment (CDPHE) and the Montezuma County Public Health Agency. The child had not received the measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR) vaccine and has no known connection to recent measles exposures reported in Colorado, including another recent case in Montezuma County. The child also had not traveled outside the state.
Officials stated that because there is no clear source of infection, it is possible that other unidentified cases of measles may be present or passing through the Cortez area. An investigation into the case is ongoing.
“Measles is a highly contagious, but preventable disease. Getting vaccinated is the best way to protect yourself, your family, and your community,” public health officials said.
Measles typically begins with symptoms such as fever, cough, runny nose, and red eyes. A rash usually appears several days later on the face and spreads to other parts of the body. People who have not received the MMR vaccine can still get vaccinated within 72 hours after exposure to help prevent illness. In some cases, immunoglobulin administered within six days may also help prevent or lessen symptoms.
Public health authorities identified Cold Stone Creamery at 215 S. Sligo St., Cortez, CO 81321 as a potential exposure site on Wednesday, Nov. 26 between 3:30 p.m. and 6 p.m. Anyone who was at this location during those times should monitor for symptoms until Dec. 17. If symptoms develop, individuals are advised to call their healthcare provider before visiting any medical facility to reduce further spread of the disease.
Monitoring for symptoms is particularly important for those who have not been vaccinated with MMR, especially infants under one year old who are not routinely recommended for vaccination.
For more information about measles symptoms, transmission methods, vaccine recommendations, updates on Colorado’s current cases in 2025, and a list of exposure locations, visit the CDPHE measles webpage.
