Third Measles Case Confirmed in Colorado — Possible Exposure Sites in Pagosa Springs
A third measles case has been confirmed in Colorado, this time involving an adult resident of Archuleta County in Pagosa Springs, the Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment (CDPHE) announced Tuesday. The case follows two others reported in recent weeks — one in Denver and another in Pueblo — though health officials say the latest case does not appear to be linked to either.
The individual’s vaccination status is unknown, and unlike the earlier cases, which were connected to travel in Mexico, the Pagosa Springs resident had not recently traveled outside Colorado. This raises the possibility of community transmission, according to state epidemiologist Dr. Rachel Herlihy.
The patient was contagious between March 26 and April 3 and sought medical care on March 31. CDPHE has identified several public locations where people may have been exposed:
Possible Exposure Locations & Times:
-
Wolf Creek Ski Area, Pagosa Springs
March 28–30 (all day each day) -
Pagosa Medical Group, 27B Talisman Dr., Unit 3
March 31, 9:05 a.m. – 12:15 p.m.
April 2, 3:45 – 6:00 p.m. -
City Market, 165 Country Center Dr., Pagosa Springs
March 31, 10:00 a.m. – 12:45 p.m.
Measles symptoms typically appear 7–21 days after exposure and include fever, cough, runny nose, red eyes, and a rash that starts on the face and spreads. Anyone who may have been in the affected areas during those times should monitor for symptoms and consult a healthcare provider if needed.
CDPHE urges all Coloradans to ensure they are up to date on their MMR (measles, mumps, rubella) vaccinations. Two doses provide about 97% protection against measles. Roughly 93.7% of Colorado children are vaccinated — below the 95% threshold needed for community immunity.
There are currently measles cases reported in 22 states, according to the CDC. Families with unvaccinated children are advised to avoid international travel to outbreak-prone areas.
Residents can check their immunization status using the state’s Immunization Information System.
