Public Health Reminds Residents to Review Vaccination Status
Delta County Public Health and the Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment (CDPHE) have confirmed a case of measles in a Delta County child under the age of five.
The child had received one dose of the measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR) vaccine and is recovering at home. The child was not hospitalized.
Public health officials report that the child has no known connection to other recent measles cases in Colorado and has not traveled outside the state. Because investigators have not identified a clear source of infection, the case may represent an unidentified exposure within the community. The investigation remains ongoing.
Why This Case Matters
Measles is one of the most contagious diseases known. While vaccination remains highly effective, breakthrough cases can occasionally occur, particularly after prolonged exposure. Individuals who have received at least one dose of the MMR vaccine often experience milder illness and are less likely to spread the virus to others.
The case also serves as a reminder of the importance of completing the recommended MMR vaccine series. Children should receive two doses of the MMR vaccine—one between 12 and 15 months of age and a second between 4 and 6 years of age- before entering kindergarten. Adults without evidence of immunity should speak with their healthcare provider about vaccination recommendations.
The MMR vaccine is considered safe and highly effective, providing approximately 97% protection against measles after two doses.
Potential Exposure Locations
Anyone who visited the following locations during the specified times may have been exposed to measles:
Location
Date/ Time
When symptoms may develop
Delta Health Urgent Care
296 Stafford Lane, Delta, CO 81416
Wednesday, May 27
5:30 – 8:30 p.m.
Through Wednesday, June 17
Delta Health Emergency Department
1501 3rd St., Delta, CO 81416
Wednesday, May 27
6:30 – 9:30 p.m.
Through Wednesday, June 17
Individuals who were present at these locations during those times should monitor for symptoms through June 17.
Symptoms to Watch For
Measles typically begins with:
Fever
Cough
Runny nose
Red, watery eyes
Several days later, a rash usually develops, beginning on the face and spreading downward across the body.
Anyone who develops these symptoms and believes they may have been exposed should contact a healthcare provider immediately.
Call Before Seeking Care
Public health officials stress that people who develop symptoms should call ahead before visiting a doctor’s office, urgent care clinic, or emergency department.
Alerting medical staff before arrival allows healthcare facilities to take precautions that help protect other patients and healthcare workers from exposure.
Public Health Response
Delta County Public Health and CDPHE are actively conducting contact tracing and monitoring efforts.
When a potential exposure is identified, public health staff work to:
Review immunization records through the Colorado Immunization Information System (CIIS)
Identify individuals at the highest risk of infection
Notify exposed individuals and provide guidance
Evaluate eligibility for post-exposure treatment
Monitor exposed individuals for symptoms
Issue public notifications when complete exposure lists are not available
For some exposed individuals who are not vaccinated, receiving the MMR vaccine within 72 hours of exposure may help prevent illness. In certain situations, immunoglobulin treatment administered within six days of exposure may reduce the severity of the disease.
A Message to the Community
Prior to this case, Delta County Public Health records dating back to 2016 showed no confirmed measles cases in the county. While the overall risk to the public remains low, this case highlights the importance of maintaining high vaccination rates and remaining aware of symptoms.
Delta County Public Health encourages residents to review their vaccination records, ensure children are up to date on recommended immunizations, and contact public health with any questions about measles or vaccine availability. How to find your Vaccination records
Public health staff are available to answer questions and provide immunization services, including programs for individuals who are uninsured or whose insurance does not cover vaccines.
For additional information about measles, exposure locations, and vaccination recommendations, residents can visit the Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment’s measles information webpage or contact Delta County Public Health
Media Contact:
Shirley Tatto - [email protected]
Emergency Preparedness and Response Coordinator
Delta County Public Health
970-874-2189
Delta County Public Health
255 W 6th Street - Delta, CO 81416
970.874.2165
Canyons – Rivers – Mountains
DeltaCountyCO.gov
Delta County Public Health | 255 W 6th St. | Delta, CO 81416 US
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