The state of Colorado is facing a growing health concern as authorities confirm a second case of measles this year. This alarming news comes from Denver, where a 1-year-old child, who is unvaccinated, has been diagnosed after recently traveling to Chihuahua, Mexico, an area grappling with a measles outbreak.

The confirmation was made public through a joint statement by the Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment along with the Denver Department of Public Health and Environment, urging residents to review their vaccination status meticulously. Symptoms to watch for include fever, cough, runny nose, red eyes, and a distinctive rash that typically appears days after exposure, often beginning on the face and spreading throughout the body.

Critical exposure warnings were issued for those who visited the Denver Health emergency department on April 6, between 10:30 a.m. and 4:30 p.m. Fortunately, health officials are taking robust measures to contain the spread of this highly contagious disease.

This recent case follows another reported incident in late March involving an adult in Pueblo, who also had traveled to a region in Mexico impacted by a measles outbreak. Dr. Rachel Herlihy, state epidemiologist and deputy chief medical officer, expressed concern about the vulnerability of infants under 12 months, who cannot receive the routine measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR) vaccine until they reach 12 to 15 months. "This case serves as a crucial reminder for families considering international travel to consult healthcare providers regarding the timing of vaccinations," she emphasized.

The MMR vaccine is known to be the most effective way to protect against measles, yet Colorado's vaccination rate is currently 94%, just below the crucial herd immunity threshold of 95%. This shortfall places the community at significant risk for potential outbreaks.

Moreover, national data reveals a worrying trend: as of early April 2025, there have been 607 confirmed measles cases across the United States—significantly higher than in previous years. Other states affected include Alaska, California, Florida, and many more.

In a sobering note, the U.S. has registered two deaths related to measles this year, with 12% of cases resulting in hospitalization. Health officials are sounding the alarm for a collective effort to boost vaccination rates and ensure community safety.

Residents are urged to act now—check your vaccination status, stay informed, and consider getting vaccinated to protect yourself and those around you! Don’t let Colorado fall prey to a preventable outbreak!