Three New Measles Cases Confirmed
Maricopa County confirms 3 new measles cases, according to the Maricopa County Department of Public Health (MCDPH). The cases were confirmed on Wednesday and are likely infected locally, health officials said. Three new measles cases are raising fresh concerns in the East Valley.
Cases Connected, No Wider Link
Health officials say the cases are connected. However, there is no known connection beyond the cases themselves. Dr. Nick Staab with county public health said this is another example of community spread in Maricopa County.
Exposure Sites Released
A list of possible exposure sites in the East Valley was released. The three patients visited several places across the East Valley. Anyone at places near Mesa Gateway Airport on listed dates and times may have been exposed to measles. The measles virus can survive in the air for up to two hours, and exposure times listed factored in the virus’s ability to survive in the air.
Vaccination Urged
Staab asked people to know their vaccination status if notified of exposure or at public places at listed dates and times. Staab said the biggest concern is for unvaccinated people. About 90% of unvaccinated people exposed to measles will become infected. MCDPH says if symptoms develop, stay home and call your health care provider. MCDPH said this highlights the ongoing risk of local transmission during this outbreak. MCDPH emphasized the importance of vaccination and early symptom recognition.
Broader Outbreak Context
The majority of measles cases in Arizona this year are in Mohave County. There are 70 confirmed measles cases in Mohave County. The new Maricopa County cases add to the statewide tally.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many new measles cases were confirmed in Maricopa County and when?
Maricopa County confirmed 3 new measles cases on Wednesday, according to the Maricopa County Department of Public Health.
What is the risk of infection for unvaccinated people exposed to measles?
About 90% of unvaccinated people exposed to measles will become infected, according to health officials.
Where were possible exposure sites for measles in the East Valley?
A list of possible exposure sites in the East Valley was released, including places near Mesa Gateway Airport on listed dates and times.
