Colorado Reports First Measles Case Since 2023 as Outbreaks Rise Nationwide

Colorado marks a concerning trend as outbreaks rise nationwide. As reported by Ingold , the individual involved, an unvaccinated adult, had recently traveled to Mexico, where ongoing outbreaks have been documented. This case underscores the importance of maintaining vaccination coverage to prevent the spread of this highly contagious virus. The exposure risk in Pueblo, CO highlights that even regions with historically low incidence rates can experience resurgence due to external factors such as international travel.

Mexico experiencing an ongoing measles outbreak. 

The case involves an unvaccinated Pueblo adult who recently traveled to an area of Mexico "experiencing an ongoing measles outbreak," according to CDPHE.

The department said people who visited the Southwest Deli and Cafe, located at 1873 South Pueblo Boulevard in Pueblo, between Monday, March 17 and Friday, March 21 may have been exposed to the disease. Anyone at the Southern Colorado Clinic between 3:30 p.m. and 6 p.m. on Saturday, March 22 may have also been exposed.

Measles is one of the most contagious diseases we know, but it is also highly preventable," Dr. Rachel Herlihy, deputy chief medical officer and state epidemiologist, said in a statement. "The MMR vaccine provides excellent protection and helps prevent outbreaks like the one we are seeing globally. We urge Coloradans to review their vaccination status and take steps to protect themselves, their families, and their communities."

This month, the U.S. recorded the most measles cases in a single year since 2019, CDC data shows. The majority of infections have been reported in West Texas, and one child has died of the disease, local health officials said. Texas has seen 400 cases and the rest of the country has seen 483 recorded cases this year so far. And Kansas, to Colorado's east, has reported over 20 cases so far this year.

Moreover, the situation is exacerbated by significant outbreaks occurring in neighboring states like Texas and New Mexico, which have reported over 155 cases . While Colorado has not seen locally transmitted cases since the mid-1990s, health officials remain vigilant and urge residents to verify their vaccination status . The increasing number of cases nationally necessitates proactive measures to safeguard public health and mitigate potential outbreaks within the state.

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Sarah H

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