New Measles Cases Confirmed in Weld County: Exposure Alerts Issued for Colorado Springs and Loveland
Colorado health officials have confirmed two additional cases of measles in Weld County, bringing the total number of cases in the state to 15 this year. The Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment (CDPHE) and Weld County Public Health report that the new cases involve two unvaccinated adults who were household contacts of a previously confirmed case.
While these cases mark the third and fourth confirmed instances of measles in Weld County this year, officials clarify that they aren’t linked to the ongoing outbreak involving Broomfield schools. That separate outbreak previously required 80 students, staff, and volunteers to remain off-campus due to their vaccination status.
Critical Exposure Locations and Dates
Public health officials are notifying the public about specific locations where individuals may have been exposed to the virus. If you visited these locations during the specified times, you should monitor your health closely.
Colorado Springs: Chick-fil-A
A known exposure occurred at the Chick-fil-A at the Citadel Crossing Shopping Center, located at 505 N. Academy Blvd. In Colorado Springs. The exposure window was March 25, between 5 p.m. And 8 p.m. Symptoms for those exposed at this location may develop through April 15.
Loveland: UCHealth Medical Center of the Rockies
Previous exposures were identified at 2500 Rocky Mountain Ave. In Loveland. While the symptom window for these locations ended on Wednesday, April 8, the identified areas were:
- Emergency Department: Tuesday, March 17, from 5:30 a.m. To 1:30 p.m.
- Outpatient Pharmacy: Wednesday, March 18, from 11:25 a.m. To 1:25 p.m.
How to Recognize Measles Symptoms
Measles is a highly contagious disease. According to CBS News Colorado, symptoms typically begin with:
- High fever
- Cough
- Runny nose
- Red, watery eyes
A characteristic rash usually appears several days after these initial symptoms, starting on the face and spreading downward across the body.
Action Plan for Exposed Individuals: If you were at the listed locations during the exposure windows, watch for symptoms for 21 days. Monitoring is especially critical for unvaccinated individuals and infants under one year old, who are not routinely recommended for the vaccine.
The Role of the MMR Vaccine
The measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR) vaccine is the most effective way to protect yourself and your community. While the vaccine is highly effective, “breakthrough cases” can occur, particularly after prolonged exposure within a household. These cases generally result in a milder illness and are less likely to spread the virus to others.
- New Cases: Two unvaccinated adults in Weld County.
- Exposure Site: Chick-fil-A at Citadel Crossing (Colorado Springs) on March 25, 5-8 p.m.
- Symptom Window: Watch for symptoms through April 15 for the Colorado Springs exposure.
- Prevention: The MMR vaccine remains the best defense against infection.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are these cases related to the Broomfield school outbreak?
No. The CDPHE stated they do not believe these specific Weld County cases are tied to the Broomfield High School outbreak.
What should I do if I develop symptoms?
If you develop a fever, cough, or rash after a potential exposure, call the CDPHE immediately at 720-653-3369 or contact your local public health agency.
How many cases have there been in Colorado this year?
There have been 15 total confirmed cases of measles in the state of Colorado this year.
Health officials will continue to update the list of exposure locations as they are identified to ensure public safety and containment of the virus.