Measles
Measles Alert: Updated April 13, 2026
More cases of measles were observed in the US in 2025 than have been seen in decades. On average, the total cases last year were 12-fold higher on average than any year since the early 1990s. In 2026, the US is on track to have an even higher number of cases and Beacon Center Doctors emphasizes that this upward trend puts the US at significant risk of losing measles elimination status this year which was originally declared in 2000. Consistent with national trends, cases in Colorado are increasing. In 2025, 36 cases were identified, significantly higher than the past decade when the highest number of annual cases was 2. There have already been 10 cases (92% unvaccinated and 8% under vaccinated) identified in 2026 in Broomfield County
More cases are expected in Colorado with approximately 91% coverage of MMR in individuals 18 years and younger; this translates to an ongoing risk of measles cases and outbreaks of 51% to 36%. Importantly, 1 to 2 MMR vaccinations are the most effective way to prevent infection, suffering, and complications from measles. All individuals are encouraged to ensure they are up to date on recommended immunizations by checking your vaccine records or discussing with your doctor to reduce your risk and help limit further spread.
Measles is a highly contagious virus that spreads through airborne droplets when an infected person coughs, sneezes or simply breathes. The airborne virus can remain viable for up to 2 hours in the air, in enclosed spaces. One infected person can spread measles to 12 to 18 people who are not immune.
Please see the Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment site for current outbreak updates.
How do I know if I have measles?
Symptoms of measles typically begin 8 -14 days after exposure to the virus, according to the CDC. Symptoms include:
- Rash – often starting on the face then spreading across the body to arms and legs
- Fever
- Cough
- Runny nose
- Red and watery eyes
Many people diagnosed with measles had exposure to an infected individual in a crowded indoor space where people gather (airport, school, weddings, shopping centers, hospitals); this includes both state-side and international areas. During active outbreaks in Colorado, locations and timing of exposures are listed on the public website. There have been cases of measles in which the specific exposure was unknown. Those who are most at risk of a measles infection are those who are not vaccinated or under vaccinated, immune-compromised individuals, infants too young to be vaccinated and pregnant persons. Measles is much less likely in vaccinated individuals but is still possible.
Potential severe health complications from measles
Contracting measles can not only lead to hospitalization from immediate symptoms and complications but can also result in long-term health complications and or death. Until 2025, when there were 2 childhood deaths, there had been no childhood deaths from the complications of measles in more than 20 years. Complications of measles can include:
- Severe breathing problems including pneumonia
- Encephalitis (an infection causing brain swelling and potentially brain damage)
- Severe diarrhea and related dehydration
- Ear infections
- Complications during pregnancy
- Blindness
- SSPE (subacute sclerosing panencephalitis) - a rare, fatal disease of the central nervous system
These complications are most common in children under the age of 5 and adults over the age of 30. Recent studies have better delineated that infection with measles weakens the immune system for up to 5 years and can make the body “forget” how to protect itself against infections.
What do you do if you think you have measles?
If you think you have measles or recent exposure, it is important that you isolate at home. Call your primary care office or urgent care to set up an evaluation through a phone or video visit. If you are experiencing serious symptoms, such as trouble breathing, call the ED and let them know your concern for measles prior to presenting. Remember to always wear a mask when seeking medical care. These steps help reduce the risk of spreading infection to others.
Measles (MMR) Vaccination: Frequently Asked Questions
The measles vaccine is highly safe and effective at preventing measles and is also used to help stop outbreaks by delivering vaccine to unvaccinated individuals soon after exposure. Measles is a preventable infection. There is no benefit to natural infection because infection comes at a high risk of health complications. Two doses of the MMR vaccine are proven safe and 97% effective in prevention of measles. Importantly, vaccination of the general population helps protect immune deficient people who cannot get this live vaccine.
Do I need “booster” doses of measles vaccine (MMR) vaccine to prevent measles?
Current answer is No. Multiple specialty organizations (Pediatrics, Family Practices, Obstetrics and Gynecology, Infectious Diseases) guidance does not recommend a “booster” dose of the measles, mumps and rubella vaccine (MMR). Recipients who have received the recommended two doses of the MMR vaccine are currently considered to have life-long immunity which is 97% effective for prevention of measles. If continued high circulation of measles and/or the US loses elimination status, vaccine dosing guidance may change.
Do I need to get checked for Measles immunity if I have documentation of two vaccines?
No, you are considered immune.
Do I need to get checked for Measles immunity if I only have documentation of one vaccine or I can’t find my vaccine documentation?
If you are unsure about your vaccination history, your provider can review and help decide whether your vaccine history gives you protection from the measles and if you need an MMR vaccine. Your provider can order a Measles (Rubeola) Ab test to see if you are immune or you can ask your provider for an additional MMR vaccine. It is safe to get an additional MMR vaccine in the case you have lost your records and want to assure you are adequately vaccinated.
What is considered acceptable evidence of immunity to measles?
Acceptable presumptive evidence of immunity against measles includes at least one of the following:
-
Written documentation of adequate vaccination:
- One or more doses of a measles-containing vaccine administered on or after the first birthday for preschool-age children and adults not at high risk.
- Two doses of measles-containing vaccine for school-age children, adolescents, and adults at high risk, including college students, healthcare personnel, and international travelers.
- Laboratory evidence of immunity against measles
- Laboratory confirmation of past or present measles infection (verbal history of measles does not count)
-
Birth before 1957
- Although birth before 1957 is considered evidence of measles immunity for most, it is recommended that healthcare workers either document adequate immunity via blood test or undergo additional vaccination (2 doses of MMR vaccine a minimum interval 28 days apart).
Measles (MMR) Vaccine Recommendations for Children
- Two doses of measles-containing vaccine either measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR) or measles, mumps, rubella and varicella (MMRV). First dose at 12–15 months and a second dose at 4-6 years
- An early dose of MMR is recommended for infants ages 6-11 months prior to international travel or to areas with measles outbreaks. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention tracks measles cases and outbreaks on its Measles Cases and Outbreaks webpage
Measles (MMR) Vaccine Recommendations for Adults
Zero, one, or two doses of MMR vaccine are needed for the adults described below.
Zero doses of MMR vaccine:
- Adults born before 1957, except healthcare personnel*
- Adults born 1957 or later, who are at low risk (i.e., not an international traveler or healthcare worker, or person attending college or other post-high school educational institution) and who have already received one or more documented doses of live measles vaccine
- Adults with laboratory evidence of immunity or laboratory confirmation of current or past measles infection
One dose of MMR vaccine:
- Adults born in 1957 or later who are at low risk (i.e., not an international traveler, healthcare worker, or person attending college or other post-high school educational institution) and have no documented vaccination with live measles vaccine and no laboratory evidence of immunity or documented prior measles infection.
Two doses of MMR vaccine:
-
High-risk adults without any prior documented live measles vaccination
and no laboratory evidence of immunity or documented prior measles infection,
including:
- Healthcare personnel*
- International travelers born in 1957 or later
- People attending colleges and other post-high school educational institutions
People who previously received a dose of measles vaccine in 1963–1967 and are unsure which type of vaccine they received, or are sure it was inactivated measles vaccine, should be revaccinated with either one (if low-risk) or two (if high-risk) doses of MMR vaccine.
Do I need an MMR vaccine if I am travelling to an area with a known measles outbreak?
If you are traveling to an area with an on-going Measles outbreak, it is recommended that you check your MMR vaccine status. If you are not considered immune (see above), consider getting your MMR vaccine. Please consult with your provider if you have underlying health issues.
Where to get a Measles (MMR) Vaccine
We offer the Measles vaccine for adults and children at all BCH Primary Care clinics. Please call 303-415-4015 to schedule.
BCH is part of the Vaccines for Children program administered by the Department of Public Health & Environment. The Vaccines for Children (VFC) program providers free or low-cost vaccines for children who are uninsured, underinsured, on Medicaid or Medicaid eligible, and/or Alaskan Native/American Indian. Free vaccination is available at these 4 BCH Primary Care clinic locations for children who qualify:
