Colorado’s first confirmed measles case, announced April 1, in addition to 24 confirmed cases in Kansas and recent cases across numerous other states — which have resulted in two deaths and several hospitalizations — are raising concerns.
In CommonSpirit Health's Mountain Region, Colorado, Kansas, and Utah’s below-average immunization rates make them more vulnerable to the spread of the virus. And you may be wondering how to best protect yourself and your family.
Here's what you need to know about the measles outbreak, how to spot symptoms, and what you can do to stay as safe as possible.
Understanding the Recent Outbreak of Measles
The measles outbreak started in a community in Texas that is not very well-vaccinated and has since spread to nearby states. The primary cause of the outbreak is a lack of herd immunity, which requires that 95% of individuals are immunized — either by vaccine or natural infection.
"Colorado, Kansas, and Utah are in the bottom half of the states regarding immunization status," said Dr. Danielle Trujillo, a board-certified physician at CommonSpirit Family Medicine Longmont. CommonSpirit is a dedicated, mission-driven healthcare system with clinics and hospitals across 21 states.
"We are well below herd immunity in many areas and are absolutely at risk for a measles outbreak — especially with spring's increased travel," Dr. Trujillo added.
Measles Symptoms to Watch For
Measles is a highly contagious viral infection, and it can be life-threatening. In fact, up to nine out of 10 unvaccinated people exposed to the virus will become infected. The measles virus is airborne and can linger in the air and on surfaces for up to two hours.
Measles symptoms typically appear 7 to 14 days after exposure. Initial signs of infection can often include:
- High-grade fever
- Cough
- Runny nose
- Red, watery eyes
"Two to five days after the fever, we see development of a measles rash that starts at the hairline and spreads down to the face, body, and then extremities," explained Dr. Trujillo. "Assuming no complications, the illness typically lasts about one week."
What to Do if You Suspect Measles
If you or your child develop measles symptoms, it's important to act quickly.
"Contact your healthcare provider or local health department immediately," said Dr. Trujillo. "They can guide you on what to do next and how to get tested. Make sure to avoid public spaces and isolate to prevent potential spreading the virus to others."
If you don't have a local healthcare provider, CommonSpirit Health offers comprehensive services across 20 hospitals and numerous clinics throughout Colorado, Kansas, and Utah.
Defending Against the Measles
Dr. Trujillo said the best defense against measles is the MMR (measles, mumps, and rubella) vaccine.
"It's highly effective, with one dose providing 93% protection and two doses offering 97% protection," Dr. Trujillo said.
For parents hesitant about the MMR vaccine or other vaccinations, Dr. Trujillo recommends the Vaccine Education Center at the Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, which provides reliable, evidence-based information to help parents make informed decisions.
"They do a great job of comparing the risk of the vaccine with the risk of the disease," noted Dr. Trujillo. "For a long time, we've had the privilege of not seeing these diseases circulate, and we seem to have lost touch with why we vaccinate. We need to remember that if we don't vaccinate, these diseases can return."
Preventing a Measles Outbreak
Schools, daycares, and community spaces can play a crucial role in reducing the chances of a measles outbreak in your community by:
- Ensuring vaccination records are up-to-date while providing education about the importance of the MMR vaccine for all eligible children and staff
- Monitoring symptoms and taking swift action if measles is suspected
- Promoting regular hand washing and coughing etiquette, given that respiratory droplets spread measles
- Advising sick individuals to stay home
Stay Informed and Protected
By getting vaccinated, staying informed, and recognizing symptoms early, we can work together to ward off a measles outbreak.
You can prepare for a potential outbreak by using CommonSpirit Health's location search tool to find options near you. These facilities ensure that residents across Colorado, Kansas, and Utah have access to quality healthcare services, from emergency and urgent care to routine check-ups and specialized medical treatments.
