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Measles Cases Re-emerge in Maricopa County

  //health-fitness.news-articles.net/content/2026/ .. /measles-cases-re-emerge-in-maricopa-county.html
  Published in Health and Fitness on Saturday, January 31st 2026 at 19:38 GMT by FOX 10 Phoenix
      Locales: Arizona, UNITED STATES

PHOENIX, AZ - February 1st, 2026 - Maricopa County health officials have confirmed three cases of measles, the first reported in the county since 2016. While initially linked to individuals with recent international travel, the re-emergence of this highly contagious disease is sparking concern among public health experts and raising questions about vaccination rates and potential for wider spread.

The confirmed cases, announced late last week, are all connected to individuals who traveled outside the United States. This suggests an importation of the virus, highlighting the continued global risk of measles and the importance of maintaining high vaccination coverage. However, experts warn that imported cases can quickly escalate into community outbreaks if susceptible populations exist.

Measles, also known as rubeola, is a viral infection characterized by a distinctive, all-over rash and is notorious for its contagiousness. It's spread through respiratory droplets produced when an infected person coughs or sneezes. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), measles is so contagious that if one person has it, 90% of those who are not immune around that person will also become infected. This makes it one of the most easily transmitted airborne diseases.

"The fact that we're seeing cases after a decade of none is a wake-up call," stated Dr. Emily Carter, an epidemiologist at Arizona State University. "While travel-related cases are expected, they emphasize vulnerabilities in our local immunity. We need to investigate further to determine if any local transmission has occurred and if vaccination rates are sufficient to prevent a larger outbreak."

The symptoms of measles typically begin with a high fever, cough, runny nose, and watery eyes. After several days, a characteristic rash develops, usually starting on the face and spreading down the body. While many people recover from measles without lasting complications, it can lead to serious health issues, especially in vulnerable populations. These include pneumonia, encephalitis (inflammation of the brain), and, in rare cases, death.

Who is at Risk?

Health officials are particularly concerned about the health of infants too young to be vaccinated, pregnant women, and individuals with compromised immune systems. Infants receive their first dose of the measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR) vaccine at 12-15 months of age, leaving younger babies unprotected. Pregnant women who contract measles are at increased risk of complications, potentially affecting both the mother and the fetus.

Those with weakened immune systems, due to conditions like cancer treatment or autoimmune diseases, may not be able to receive the MMR vaccine or may not develop sufficient immunity from it, making them more susceptible to severe illness.

Vaccination: The Key to Protection

The MMR vaccine is highly effective in preventing measles. Two doses are recommended for most people: the first at 12-15 months and a second between ages 4-6 years. Adults born in 1957 or later who have not been vaccinated or do not have evidence of immunity should also receive two doses of the MMR vaccine.

"Vaccination is the best defense against measles," emphasizes Maria Rodriguez, a public health nurse with the Maricopa County Department of Public Health. "It's not just about protecting yourself; it's about protecting your family, your community, and those who are most vulnerable."

While overall vaccination rates in Maricopa County remain relatively high, there have been localized areas with declining coverage, largely attributed to vaccine hesitancy and misinformation. Public health officials are actively working to address these concerns and promote the benefits of vaccination through education and outreach programs.

What to Do If You Suspect Measles The Maricopa County Department of Public Health urges anyone experiencing symptoms of measles - fever, cough, runny nose, watery eyes, and rash - to contact their healthcare provider immediately before visiting a clinic or emergency room. This allows healthcare providers to take appropriate precautions to prevent the spread of the virus to others. Reporting suspected cases is crucial for swift response and containment efforts.

For more information about measles and vaccination, residents are encouraged to visit the Maricopa County Department of Public Health website at [ https://www.maricopacounty.gov/publichealth ] and the CDC website at [ https://www.cdc.gov/measles/index.html ]. The return of measles serves as a crucial reminder of the importance of continued vigilance and collective action to protect public health.