Public health officials in Maricopa County have confirmed a new case of measles in the East Valley, specifically involving a resident connected to the Queen Creek area. Officials say the case is not linked to previously reported infections earlier in the year, and the exact source of exposure remains unknown, raising concerns about possible local transmission.
Health officials are actively working with local and state partners to identify and notify individuals who may have been exposed. Because not everyone who may have come into contact with the infected person can be directly identified, authorities have released a list of public locations where exposure may have occurred.
Three locations in Queen Creek have been identified as potential exposure sites. These include a Costco located at 20260 South Ellsworth Road on April 3 from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m., a Walmart at 21055 East Rittenhouse Road on April 4 from 8:15 a.m. to 10:45 a.m., and Generation Church at 22801 Via Del Jardin on April 5 from 8:45 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Officials say individuals who were at these locations during those times should monitor for symptoms through April 25, April 26, and April 27 respectively.
The measles virus is highly contagious and can remain in the air for up to two hours after an infected person leaves an area. Because of this, even brief exposure in a shared space can lead to infection, particularly among individuals who are not vaccinated.
Health officials say symptoms typically appear between seven and twelve days after exposure, though in some cases they may take up to 21 days to develop. Early symptoms include a high fever, red and watery eyes, coughing, and a runny nose. A rash often follows, beginning at the hairline and spreading downward across the body.
People who believe they may have been exposed are advised to check their vaccination status and watch closely for symptoms. Those who develop symptoms should stay home and contact a healthcare provider before seeking in-person care to avoid spreading the illness to others. Certain individuals, including infants, pregnant women, and those with weakened immune systems, may be eligible for preventative treatment after exposure and are encouraged to seek medical guidance.
Officials emphasize that measles is preventable through vaccination. The measles, mumps, and rubella vaccine is typically given in two doses during childhood, while adults should have at least one dose received after their first birthday. Health experts continue to stress that staying up to date on vaccinations is the most effective way to prevent infection and limit the spread of the disease.
This case marks another instance of measles being identified in Maricopa County this year, adding to concerns about the potential for further spread within the community. Health officials continue to monitor the situation closely and urge residents to remain vigilant, especially if they were present at any of the identified exposure sites.
Source: ABC15
