Broomfield High School students and staff may have been exposed to measles, Colorado health officials confirmed Friday, marking the second case of the highly contagious virus in the state this year. The exposure occurred on three days – Thursday, February 19, Friday, February 20, and Monday, February 23 – between the hours of 8 a.m. And 6 p.m. At the school located at 1 Eagle Way in Broomfield.
The case involves a Broomfield County resident, a child between the ages of 5 and 17, who had not received the measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR) vaccine, according to the Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment (CDPHE). Notably, the child has no known connection to recent measles exposures and has not traveled outside of Colorado, raising concerns that undetected cases may be circulating within the state. This lack of a clear source of infection suggests “that unidentified measles cases may be occurring in or traveling through the area,” CDPHE stated in a press release.
Potential Exposure Locations Beyond the High School
The potential for exposure extends beyond Broomfield High School. CDPHE has identified several businesses and medical facilities where individuals may have been exposed to the virus. These include a King Soopers in Broomfield, a PetSmart in Westminster, and Efrain’s Mexican Restaurant in Lafayette. Exposure dates and times vary by location, and individuals who visited these places during the specified periods are advised to monitor for symptoms.
| Location | Date/time | When symptoms may develop |
| Broomfield High School1 Eagle WayBroomfield | Thursday, Feb. 19Friday, Feb. 20Monday, Feb. 238 a.m.- 6 p.m. | Through March 16 |
| King Soopers1150 U.S. 287Broomfield | Thursday, Feb. 191-5 p.m.Saturday, Feb. 219 a.m.-1 p.m. | Through March 12 Through March 14 |
| Petsmart Walnut Creek10460 Town Center Dr.Westminster | Sunday, Feb. 227:30-10 a.m. | Through March 15 |
| Efrain’s Mexican Restaurant101 E. Cleveland St.Lafayette | Sunday, Feb. 225-10 p.m. | Through March 15 |
| Advanced Urgent Care3950 W. 144th Ave.Broomfield | Tuesday, Feb. 241:30-4:30 p.m. | Through March 17 |
| UCHealth Broomfield Hospital Emergency Department11820 Destination Dr.Broomfield | Tuesday, Feb. 242:45-6 p.m. | Through March 17 |
| CU Medicine Family Medicine Clinic361 Centennial Pkwy #120Louisville | Wednesday, Feb. 2510:45 a.m.-2:30 p.m. | Through March 18 |
Understanding Measles and Protecting Yourself
Measles is a highly contagious airborne disease that begins with fever, cough, runny nose, and red eyes. A rash typically follows several days later, starting on the face and spreading throughout the body. The CDPHE emphasizes that vaccination remains the most effective way to protect against measles. Individuals who have not been vaccinated can still receive the MMR vaccine within 72 hours of exposure to potentially prevent illness. In some cases, immunoglobulin, administered within six days of exposure, may also offer protection or lessen the severity of the illness.
Anyone who believes they may have been exposed should monitor for symptoms for 21 days. If symptoms develop, it is crucial to contact a healthcare provider, urgent care center, or emergency department *before* going in for treatment, and to inform them of the potential measles exposure. This precaution helps prevent further spread of the virus.
A Resurgence of Measles in Colorado and Nationwide
This latest case comes as measles are making a concerning comeback across the United States. Colorado recorded 36 cases in 2025, the highest number in decades. Nationwide, nearly 1,000 cases have been reported in 2026, putting the country on track to surpass the 2,281 cases reported in 2025, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). South Carolina is currently experiencing the largest outbreak, with over 600 infections reported this year, followed by Florida, Utah, Arizona, California, and North Carolina.
Earlier this week, Colorado health officials alerted the public to potential exposures related to an infected adult who traveled through Denver International Airport (DIA) and attended a church service in Littleton. However, that case is not included in Colorado’s resident case count as the individual is an out-of-state resident. The CDPHE maintains a detailed list of all known exposure locations and times on its website (CDPHE Measles Exposure Information).
Broomfield High School has asked students and staff who haven’t provided proof of MMR vaccination to stay home until their vaccination status can be verified. This measure aims to limit further potential spread within the school community.
Disclaimer: This article provides information for general knowledge and informational purposes only, and does not constitute medical advice. It is essential to consult with a qualified healthcare professional for any health concerns or before making any decisions related to your health or treatment.
The Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment will continue to monitor the situation and provide updates as new information becomes available. Individuals with questions or concerns are encouraged to visit the CDPHE website or contact their local health department.
Share this information with your community and stay informed about the ongoing measles situation in Colorado. Your comments and questions are welcome below.
