Archuleta County Public Health Department (ACPHD) is providing an update, following the confirmation of a single measles case in Archuleta County.
ACPHD wants to emphasize this is considered an incident within the County and not an outbreak. According to public health definitions, an outbreak involves three or more connected cases. All Colorado measles cases investigated to date are not linked, indicating this incident is contained. The current situation in Archuleta County is classified as an incident because it involves only one confirmed case. The additional cases that have been identified are out of state but connected to the Archuleta case, which is why Colorado now meets the threshold of a measles outbreak.
Based on available information, anyone who was in the following locations during the dates and times listed below may have been exposed to measles and should monitor for symptoms for 21 days after exposure and consider avoiding public gatherings or high- risk settings. Monitoring for symptoms is especially critical for people who have not been vaccinated with the MMR vaccine.
We understand that news of a measles case can cause concern, and we want to reassure our community that we are working to reach out to individuals who we know may have been exposed to assess the risk and mitigate widespread transmission. Measles is a highly contagious disease, but it is also preventable with the MMR (measles, mumps, and rubella) vaccine.
People exposed to measles typically develop symptoms 7 to 21 days after exposure. We highly encourage you to call your medical provider immediately if you think you are having symptoms. Please follow their instructions before going into any clinic to help prevent further spread. If you are feeling sick with a fever, as always, please stay home from work/school. If fever is accompanied by dry cough, runny nose, sore throat, inflamed eyes (conjunctivitis), tiny white spots with bluish-white centers on a red background (often found inside the mouth on the inner lining of the cheek, referred to as Koplik’s spots), or a skin rash made up of large, flat blotches that often flow into one another, please contact your provider right away.
Vaccination Information
The CDPHE Vaccine Van will be offering measles vaccines and boosters this Friday, April 18, from 2-6pm, at Pagosa Peak Open School, 3133 Cornerstone Drive, Pagosa Springs. All ages are welcome.
If you are interested in vaccination, all medical providers as well as ACPHD can provide MMR.
ACPHD offers clinic hours on Wednesday 9am-6pm and Thursdays 9am-5pm. Please call 970-264-2409 prior to arrival.
The MMR vaccine is safe and highly effective. According to the CDC, one dose is about 93% effective, and two doses are about 97% effective against measles. Most people are protected for life after two doses.
Born before 1957?
People born before 1957 are generally considered immune to measles due to widespread exposure to the disease. However, in specific situations, healthcare facilities might consider vaccinating healthcare personnel born before 1957 who lack lab evidence of immunity. If you are unsure of your immunity status, it is safe to receive the MMR vaccine.
Born between 1963 and 1967?
The measles vaccine you received is considered ineffective and you will need a booster.
Born between 1957-1963, or, 1968-1989?
You may need a booster. It is recommended you check with your healthcare provider.
Born after 1989?
If you received two doses, your vaccines are considered effective.
We encourage all residents to ensure they are up to date on their MMR vaccinations. If you are unsure of your vaccination status, please contact your health care provider or Archuleta County Public Health. Vaccination is the best way to protect yourself and prevent the spread of measles.
ACPHD will continue to monitor the situation closely and provide updates as needed. The Archuleta County Public Health Department is located at 502 So. 8th Street in downtown Pagosa Springs. For more information, please call 970-264-2409, or email pio@archuletacounty.org.