A second case of measles has been confirmed in Arapahoe County, Colorado, with the individual likely being exposed to the disease on a flight that landed at Denver International Airport. This marks the seventh measles case in the state this year, highlighting the importance of vaccination and public health measures.
The confirmed case is in a vaccinated adult who was a passenger on Turkish Airlines flight 201 from Istanbul, which arrived at DIA on May 13. Another individual, an out-of-state passenger on the same flight, had measles and was present at various locations in Denver, including the airport, a hotel shuttle, and a nearby Quality Inn and Suites on May 13 and 14.
In addition to the adult case, an Arapahoe County child under the age of 5 who was also on the flight tested positive for measles. Public health officials are now reaching out to passengers and crew members who were in close proximity to the infected individuals, as well as children who were sitting on their parents’ laps during the flight.
Individuals who may have been exposed to measles are advised to monitor themselves for symptoms for 21 days or until June 17. Symptoms of measles include fever, cough, runny nose, red eyes, and a rash that typically appears on the face and spreads.
To prevent the spread of measles, public health officials recommend getting the MMR vaccine. Vaccinated individuals are at a lower risk of contracting the disease, with only about three out of 100 cases occurring in vaccinated individuals. Symptoms in vaccinated individuals are usually milder and less contagious.
Colorado has seen a total of six other measles cases this year, the highest number since 1996. To address the current outbreak, Colorado and Arapahoe County public health officials are hosting free MMR vaccine clinics for individuals who may have been exposed to measles. The clinics will take place at Altura Plaza in Aurora on Friday and at Aurora Community Connection on Saturday.
It is crucial for individuals to stay informed about the ongoing measles outbreak and take necessary precautions to protect themselves and their communities. Vaccination remains one of the most effective ways to prevent the spread of infectious diseases like measles. Stay updated on health news by signing up for our weekly newsletter.
