Measles
As of March 20, 2025, a total of 378 confirmed measles cases were reported in 18 states, including Alaska, California, Florida, Georgia, Kansas, Kentucky, Maryland, Michigan, New Jersey, New Mexico, New York City, New York State, Ohio, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, Texas, Vermont, and Washington.
The Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment is closely monitoring any cases in Colorado as well as the ongoing outbreaks in Texas and neighboring states.
What is measles?
Measles, also known as Rubeola, is a highly contagious virus that can lead to serious health complications. It spreads easily through the air when someone infected breathes, coughs, or sneezes, and the virus can linger in the air for up to two hours after exposure. You can also become infected by touching contaminated surfaces and then touching your eyes, nose, or mouth. A non-immune person has a 90% chance of becoming infected if they are exposed to someone with measles.
Measles symptoms
Symptoms usually appear 7 to 14 days after contact with the virus. Symptoms can take up to 21 days to appear. Measles typically begins with:
- High fever, cough, runny nose and red, watery eyes: The fever may spike up to 104 degrees, and white spots may show in the mouth.
- Rash: Appears 3–5 days after symptoms begin, starting at the hairline and spreading down the body. Small raised bumps may appear on the red spots. The rash is not usually itchy.
Measles is contagious from 4 days before to 4 days after the rash appears.
I'm experiencing symptoms, what should I do?
If you have not been vaccinated, have only one dose of the vaccine or know you are not immune and have measles symptoms, it is important to seek medical care right away. Call Wolfpack Wellness Center at 719-549-2830 before coming into the office.
If you have had two doses of the MMR vaccine or know that you are immune based on antibody levels, it is possible but very unlikely that you’ll get measles. If you have questions regarding suspicious symptoms, contact your healthcare provider.
What's the best way to protect myself?
The measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR) vaccine provides the best protection against measles. Two doses of the measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR) vaccine are 97% effective against measles. This vaccine provides long-lasting (lifelong in most cases) protection against measles.
How can I tell if I received the MMR vaccine?
You can tell if you have received the MMR vaccine by looking at your childhood immunization record.
You can obtain this record in a number of ways:
- 海角禁区 Pueblo requirements: Students must submit a copy of their MMR vaccine record as part of their new student requirements. You can review uploaded records by visiting the ThunderWolf health portal.
- State records: Many states offer a vaccine registry that details the vaccines you’ve received in that state. Those who have been vaccinated in Colorado can access their record through the .
- Childhood physician office: You can also reach out to your childhood physician’s office to check if they have a record of your vaccines.
- Primary school records: Most states require proof of the MMR vaccine if you attended public school. Depending on when you attended, your primary school may still have your vaccine records.
What if I'm unsure about my vaccine status or immunity?
If you do not have an immunization record or are unsure if you’ve received the MMR vaccine, you can be re-immunized or tested for immunity with an MMR titer blood test at the on-campus WolfPack Wellness Center.
Preventing the spread
Even if you do not have measles or aren’t currently sick, you can take steps to prevent the spread of illness to others:
- Stay home from class, work and social events if you are feeling unwell.
- Contact your healthcare provider if you have been in contact with someone who has measles, or you are concerned about your symptoms.
- Cover your mouth and nose when coughing or sneezing and dispose of tissues properly.
- Wash your hands frequently with soap and water or use hand sanitizer.
- Clean frequently touched surfaces (e.g., doorknobs, desks, phones) regularly to reduce the risk of contamination.
