New Cluster of Measles Cases Identified, Plus Multiple Public Exposures

Maricopa County Department of Public Health (MCDPH) has confirmed seven new measles cases in Maricopa County residents. This cluster is associated with a business in Aguila and public health is working with the employer and local partners to respond

The total number of confirmed measles cases in Maricopa County this year has now reached 21, now halfway through the year. This is significantly higher than the annual average of one case per year for the last 30 years. The continued spread of measles highlights the ongoing risk of local transmission during this outbreak, and the importance of vaccination and early symptom recognition

Public notifications are issued when exposed individuals cannot be identified, so people who may have been in a public setting at the same time as an infectious person can learn of their potential exposure and take protective steps. MCDPH will provide public notifications when additional public exposures are identified

Public exposure sites

People who were at the following locations at the listed date and time may have been exposed to measles and should watch for symptoms. The measles virus can survive in the air for up to two hours, and the listed exposure times include that extended period

People who were at the locations during the listed dates and times should:

1. Check your vaccination status. Review your immunization records to confirm you are protected against measles. People who have not had measles or received the measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR) vaccine may not be protected and should talk with a healthcare provider about vaccination. If you are not protected against measles, the MMR vaccine is safe and the most effective way to prevent measles infections.
2. Watch for symptoms, which typically appear seven to 12 days after exposure but may take up to 21 days. Symptoms include:
   • High fever (> 101°F)
   • Red, watery eyes
   • Cough
   • Runny nose
   • A rash that is red, raised, and blotchy. The rash begins after other symptoms, usually on the face at the hairline, and moves down the body. View photos of measles.

   In some situations, certain people exposed to measles may be eligible for post-exposure prophylaxis (PEP) to reduce their risk of becoming ill. This includes some children under 12 months, pregnant women, and individuals with compromised immune systems. Individuals should contact their healthcare provider for guidance.

1. If symptoms develop, stay at home, and call a healthcare provider to seek medical care and testing. Call ahead and let them know about your symptoms and possible measles exposure so you can be seen without exposing others.

Measles cannot be treated, but it can be prevented

Measles is preventable with two doses of the measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR) vaccine, typically given during childhood. Adults need at least one dose of MMR vaccine given after the age of one. Individuals born before 1957 or who had measles as a child are considered immune. In alignment with CDC guidance in the setting of a local measles outbreak, MCDPH recommends infants aged 6-11 months to get early MMR vaccination in addition to the 2 scheduled doses at 1 year and 4-6 years

Measles is a highly infectious virus that can linger in the air for up to two hours, and approximately 90% of unvaccinated individuals who are exposed to measles will become infected

There is no treatment for measles, and it can have long-term health impacts. Serious, long-term complications from measles infections include subacute sclerosing panencephalitis (SSPE), a brain infection which may not appear until years after a person’s initial measles infection

MCDPH is encouraging healthcare providers to be alert for unvaccinated patients with fever and rash, especially if they have a known exposure. Healthcare providers are required to report suspect cases of measles within 24 hours to their local health department. 

Measles Facts

• Vaccination is the most effective way to avoid measles infection and serious outcomes.
  • Unvaccinated people have a 90% chance of becoming infected if exposed.
  • Vitamin A does not prevent measles.
• In the rare case where a vaccinated person gets infected with measles, their illness will be less severe than if they were unvaccinated. 
• MMR vaccines are available at many primary care provider offices, <a href="https://healthylife7.com/the-heart-of-service-charmaine-reeder-and-community-health/” title=”The heart of service: Charmaine Reeder and Community Health”>community health centers, and pharmacies. Find low and no cost vaccine resources.
• There is no treatment for measles, and it can have serious outcomes.
  • An individual with measles can get supportive care, but there are no treatments to relieve symptoms or shorten duration of infection. 
  • While less common, measles can result in death.
• Measles is highly contagious.
  • People who are infected can spread measles to others before symptoms develop, while they still feel normal.
• Residents can check their immunization records to see if they are up to date on MMR and other vaccines.
  • Residents can visit myIR via the Arizona Department of Health Services. 
  • Assistance is also available through the MCDPH CARES Team at 602-506-6767 Mon.-Fri. from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.
  • If you do not have the recommended doses of MMR vaccine or are unsure if you do, talk with your healthcare provider about next steps.

For more information on measles, visit Maricopa.gov/measles

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Media availability: Virtual interviews will be available on Friday, July 17 from 3:00-4:00pm. Contact Lehem Eyassu to schedule

Media contact: Lehem Eyassu, Lehem.Eyassu@maricopa.gov, 602-809-8420