The confirmed measles cases in Colorado have reached 10 following recent announcements regarding two additional residents in El Paso County and another individual who was a passenger on a May 13 flight from Turkey. Notably, four passengers aboard the Turkish Airlines flight have tested positive for measles, and the two El Paso County individuals were present at the airport during the exposure period.
In response, the Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment, along with El Paso County Public Health, is conducting outreach to identify potential areas for additional exposure. They have pinpointed several locations where individuals may have been at risk:
– Love’s Travel Stop/Carls Jr. at 748 22 Road, Grand Junction on May 27 from 6-10 p.m. (Symptoms may develop through June 17).
– Maverick Gas Station at 2588 Airport Road, Colorado Springs on May 28 from 9-11:30 a.m. (Symptoms may develop through June 18).
– King Soopers at 1750 W. Uintah St., Colorado Springs on May 31 from 8:30 a.m.-12:45 p.m. (Symptoms may develop through June 21).
Health officials emphasize that the best protection against measles is the MMR vaccine, which protects against measles, mumps, and rubella. Receiving the MMR vaccine within three days of exposure can effectively prevent infection.
Monitoring for symptoms is crucial, especially for those who are unvaccinated. Symptoms typically manifest 7 to 21 days after exposure. Health officials remind anyone who was at the identified locations during the exposure windows and starts to develop symptoms to contact their healthcare provider promptly. It’s essential to communicate any potential exposure to prevent further risks.
Measles is a highly contagious viral infection that can lead to serious health complications, especially in young children. Symptoms include a rash that spreads from the face, fever, cough, runny nose, and red eyes. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, the virus spreads so effectively that nearly 90% of susceptible individuals near an infected person will contract the disease.
This surge in measles cases serves as a reminder of the importance of vaccination and public health awareness, particularly during times when international travel is common. Proactive measures and public vigilance are key in managing and reducing the spread of infectious diseases like measles.