Colorado public health officials are alerting residents to potential measles exposures in several Denver-area cities after confirming a case in an unvaccinated Broomfield County resident. The Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment (CDPHE), along with Broomfield and Boulder County Public Health, is working to notify individuals who may have been exposed at locations in Broomfield, Lafayette, Louisville, and Westminster. This case is particularly concerning as the child has no known connection to recent measles exposures and hasn’t traveled outside of Colorado, suggesting the possibility of undetected spread within the state.
Measles is a highly contagious, yet preventable, disease. The CDPHE emphasizes that vaccination remains the most effective way to protect individuals and the broader community. The current situation underscores the importance of maintaining high vaccination rates to prevent outbreaks of this potentially serious illness. Understanding the symptoms of measles and taking proactive steps, such as vaccination, are crucial for public health.
Potential Exposure Locations and Dates
Health officials have identified several locations and times where individuals may have been exposed to measles. Anyone who was present at these locations during the specified periods is advised to monitor for symptoms for 21 days after exposure. If symptoms develop, it’s vital to contact a healthcare provider, urgent care center, or emergency department *before* visiting, and to inform them of potential measles exposure to assist prevent further transmission.
| Location | Date/Time | Symptoms May Develop Through |
|---|---|---|
| Broomfield High School 1 Eagle Way Broomfield, CO 80020 |
Thursday, Feb. 19, 8 a.m. – 6 p.m. Friday, Feb. 20, 8 a.m. – 6 p.m. Monday, Feb. 23, 8 a.m. – 6 p.m. |
March 16 |
| King Soopers 1150 US-287 Broomfield, CO 80020 |
Thursday, Feb. 19, 1 – 5 p.m. Saturday, Feb. 21, 9 a.m. – 1 p.m. |
March 12 March 14 |
| Petsmart Walnut Creek 10460 Town Center Dr. Westminster, CO 80021 |
Sunday, Feb. 22, 7:30 – 10 a.m. | March 15 |
| Efrains Mexican Restaurant 101 E. Cleveland St. Lafayette, CO 80026 |
Sunday, Feb. 22, 5 – 10 p.m. | March 15 |
| Advanced Urgent Care 3950 W. 144th Ave. Broomfield, CO 80023 |
Tuesday, Feb. 24, 1:30 – 4:30 p.m. | March 17 |
| UCHealth Broomfield Hospital Emergency Department 11820 Destination Dr. Broomfield, CO 80021 |
Tuesday, Feb. 24, 2:45 – 6 p.m. | March 17 |
| CU Medicine Family Medicine Clinic 361 Centennial Pkwy #120 Louisville, CO 80027 |
Wednesday, Feb. 25, 10:45 a.m. – 2:30 p.m. | March 18 |
Understanding Measles Symptoms and Prevention
Measles typically begins with a fever, cough, runny nose, and red eyes. These initial symptoms are followed by a rash that usually appears several days later, starting on the face and then spreading across the body. The incubation period for measles—the time between exposure and the onset of symptoms—ranges from 7 to 21 days. Individuals are contagious four days before the rash appears and remain so for four days afterward, making early detection and isolation critical to preventing further spread.
The CDPHE notes that the MMR (measles, mumps, and rubella) vaccine is highly effective in preventing measles. Even after exposure, vaccination within 72 hours can help prevent illness. In some cases, immunoglobulin, administered within six days of exposure, may also offer protection or lessen the severity of the disease. Infants under one year of age, who are not routinely vaccinated, are particularly vulnerable and should be closely monitored.
The Importance of Vaccination
This case highlights the ongoing risk of measles, particularly in communities with lower vaccination rates. The lack of a clear source of infection suggests that undetected cases may be circulating, emphasizing the need for vigilance. Public health officials are urging residents to review their vaccination records and ensure they are up-to-date on the MMR vaccine. The CDPHE exposures webpage will be updated with any new exposure locations as they are identified.
State health officials have also warned students and staff at Broomfield High School that they may have been exposed.
The CDPHE will continue to monitor the situation closely and provide updates as they become available. Residents with concerns about potential exposure or symptoms of measles are encouraged to consult with their healthcare providers.
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.
Please share this information with your friends and family to help keep our community safe. We will continue to follow this developing story and provide updates as they become available.
