Health officials are investigating a third case of measles linked to Broomfield High School in Colorado, prompting renewed concerns about vaccination rates and potential community spread. The latest case involves an unvaccinated child, according to reports and underscores the highly contagious nature of the disease. Public health authorities are urging anyone who may have been exposed to contact their healthcare provider before seeking treatment, to allow for appropriate precautions.
Measles, a highly contagious viral infection, can cause fever, cough, runny nose, and conjunctivitis (pink eye), followed by a rash that spreads from the face to the body. It’s particularly dangerous for infants and people with compromised immune systems. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reports that in 2025, 12% of reported measles cases in the United States resulted in hospitalization, with three confirmed deaths – one unvaccinated adult in New Mexico and two unvaccinated school-aged children in Texas. The CDC is urging healthcare providers to stay alert for potential cases.
Rising Measles Cases in the U.S.
The recent cases at Broomfield High School are part of a broader trend of increasing measles cases across the United States. In 2025, there were 49 measles outbreaks – defined as three or more cases – and 87% of those cases were associated with outbreaks. Most cases occurred among children and adolescents who hadn’t received the measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR) vaccine, or whose vaccination history was unknown. The CDC emphasizes that MMR vaccination remains the most effective way to protect against measles and its potentially severe complications, including pneumonia, and encephalitis.
Virginia health officials are also investigating a potential measles exposure in Southwest Virginia, according to WSLS. Details are still emerging in that investigation.
Understanding Measles Contagiousness
Measles is exceptionally contagious. The virus can spread through direct contact with infectious droplets or through airborne transmission when an infected person breathes, coughs, or sneezes. Crucially, the virus can remain infectious in the air and on surfaces for up to two hours after an infected person has left the area. In other words that even brief exposure can lead to infection if an individual is not protected by vaccination or prior infection.
Individuals are contagious from four days before the rash appears until four days after the rash has surfaced. This pre-rash contagiousness makes it difficult to contain outbreaks, as people may unknowingly spread the virus before they realize they are infected. Healthcare facilities are particularly vulnerable settings, and the CDC provides a checklist for healthcare workers to prepare for and respond to suspected measles cases. This checklist includes guidance on contacting infection preventionists and health departments.
What to Do If You Suspect Exposure
If you believe you may have been exposed to measles, health officials strongly advise calling your healthcare provider, urgent care center, or emergency department *before* going in for treatment. This allows the facility to take appropriate precautions to protect other patients and staff. Public health departments will provide guidance on testing, isolation, and management of potential cases.
The CDC’s Epi On-Call list provides a 24-hour contact for public health officials, facilitating rapid response to suspected cases. This quick communication is vital for containing outbreaks and preventing further spread of the disease. The current situation highlights the importance of maintaining high immunization coverage rates to protect communities from preventable diseases like measles.
It is important to note: This article provides information for general knowledge and informational purposes only, and does not constitute medical advice. It is essential to consult with a qualified healthcare professional for any health concerns or before making any decisions related to your health or treatment.
Health officials will continue to monitor the situation at Broomfield High School and in Southwest Virginia, and provide updates as they become available. The next update from the Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment is expected next week, and Virginia health officials are expected to release further details about the Southwest Virginia exposure within 48 hours.
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