Colorado baby contracts measles after international travel
- A baby under 1 year old in Denver has contracted measles after visiting Mexico, where an outbreak is ongoing.
- The infant was unvaccinated due to being too young for the vaccination, which typically starts at 12 months.
- Health officials urge vaccination and caution for families traveling to areas with known outbreaks.
In early April 2025, a child under 1 year old living in Denver, Colorado, was confirmed to have contracted measles following a visit to Chihuahua, Mexico, where there is a significant outbreak of the disease. The baby was unvaccinated due to their young age, as children typically receive the measles vaccine between 12 and 15 months. This sounded an alarm for health officials, as the state had already reported another measles case earlier in the year in Pueblo, which was unrelated to the most recent one. The Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment (CDPHE) reported these cases in an effort to alert the public and prevent further infections. On April 6, anyone who visited the Denver Health Emergency Department during specific hours was advised to monitor for symptoms, which generally appear 7 to 21 days after exposure. Symptoms initially may include fever, cough, runny nose, and red eyes, before escalating to a facial rash. This warning emphasizes the vulnerability of infants under 12 months to measles due to their inability to receive vaccinations. Dr. Rachel Herlihy, state epidemiologist and deputy chief medical officer at CDPHE, highlighted the importance of preventive measures for families engaging in international travel, especially to areas with known outbreaks. She urged those families to consult healthcare providers regarding early MMR vaccinations for infants. As of early April, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reported numerous measles cases across several states, including Colorado. In total, 607 cases had been confirmed across 22 jurisdictions, signaling an urgent need for increased awareness and vaccination to stem the tide of this preventable disease. The emphasis on the need for vaccinations continues to play a critical role in public health strategy. Health officials are aware that unvaccinated individuals are at greater risk coming into contact with contagious individuals, reinforcing the message concerning the effectiveness of immunization in protecting vulnerable populations.