Health Officials Warning Public About Measles Exposures in Maricopa County and Flagstaff
A Preventable Threat Resurfaces: Measles Exposure Alerts Issued in Arizona
Recent health alerts have put Arizona residents on high alert. Health officials are warning the public about potential measles exposures in Maricopa County and Flagstaff. This resurgence of a once-controlled disease raises concerns about public health and the importance of vaccination. With measles cases on the rise, understanding the risks, symptoms, and legal implications is crucial.
Measles Exposure Confirmed in Maricopa County and Flagstaff
In November 2025, public health officials confirmed measles exposures at several locations in Arizona. The Maricopa County Department of Public Health (MCDPH) reported that a person with infectious measles may have exposed individuals at:
- Home2 Suites by Hilton Phoenix Downtown: November 5th, 3 PM to November 6th, 1 PM
- Mortgage Matchup Center (concert venue): November 5th, 6 PM to November 6th, 12:30 AM
Coconino County officials also confirmed a measles exposure at the Flagstaff Mall on November 6th. These alerts highlight the ease with which measles can spread, especially in areas with high traffic and close contact.
Why is This Happening?
Several factors contribute to the re-emergence of measles. A key reason is declining vaccination rates. During the 2024-2025 school year, only 88.7% of Arizona kindergarteners completed the Measles, Mumps, and Rubella (MMR) vaccine series. This is below the 95% threshold needed for herd immunity, which protects the community, including those who cannot be vaccinated.
Understanding Measles: Symptoms and Complications
Measles is a highly contagious viral illness that can cause severe health complications. Symptoms typically appear 7 to 14 days after exposure and can include:
- High fever (often above 101°F)
- Cough
- Runny nose (coryza)
- Red, watery eyes (conjunctivitis)
- Red spots with white centers inside the mouth (Koplik’s spots)
- A rash of flat, red spots that starts on the face at the hairline and spreads down the body
The measles rash typically appears 3 to 5 days after the initial symptoms. A person with measles is contagious from four days before the rash appears to four days after.
Severe complications from measles can include:
- Pneumonia (infection of the lungs)
- Encephalitis (swelling of the brain)
- Ear infections
- Diarrhea and dehydration
- Pregnancy complications, such as premature birth or low birth weight
In rare cases, measles can lead to death. The case fatality rate in the U.S. is between 1 and 3 per 1,000 cases, but it can be higher in developing countries. Immunocompromised individuals are at greater risk of severe complications.
What to Do If You’ve Been Exposed
If you think you may have been exposed to measles at any of the listed locations, health officials recommend the following:
- Monitor for Symptoms: Watch for measles symptoms through November 27th, as symptoms can take up to 21 days to appear.
- Isolate: If you develop symptoms, stay home and avoid contact with others to prevent further spread.
- Contact a Healthcare Provider: Call your doctor immediately. Inform them of your potential exposure before going to the clinic so they can take precautions to protect other patients and staff.
- Check Vaccination Status: Verify your vaccination records. You can access them through the Arizona Department of Health Services’ myIR portal. If you are unsure of your status or need assistance, contact the CARES Team at (602) 506-6767.
Prevention: The Power of Vaccination
Vaccination is the most effective way to prevent measles. The MMR vaccine is safe and highly effective, providing immunity in about 97% of people who receive two doses. Health officials strongly encourage everyone to get vaccinated, especially:
- Children: Two doses of MMR vaccine are typically given during childhood.
- Adults: Adults born after 1957 who have not had measles or been vaccinated should receive at least one dose of the MMR vaccine. Healthcare workers, international travelers, and college students should consider a second dose.
Legal Implications and Liability
The resurgence of measles raises questions about legal liability, particularly in cases where individuals contract the disease due to others’ negligence.
Vaccine Requirements and Exemptions in Arizona: Arizona law requires children to be vaccinated to attend school unless they have an exemption based on personal beliefs or medical conditions.
Liability for Non-Vaccination: It is unlikely that a lawsuit against a school, the state, or parents who choose not to vaccinate their children would be successful. Arizona law provides immunity from civil liability to schools and their employees for vaccine exemption decisions made in good faith.
To successfully sue parents for not vaccinating, it would have to be proven that the parent was irresponsible to another child. Responsibility is a tough thing to prove.
Public Health Measures and Legal Authority: County health departments have the authority to implement control measures to prevent the spread of measles, including quarantine and exclusion from school or childcare for unvaccinated individuals exposed to the virus.
The Role of Personal Injury Law
While establishing liability in measles cases can be challenging, personal injury law may come into play in certain situations. For example, if someone knowingly exposes others to measles, they may be held liable for damages.
Protecting Yourself and Your Community
The recent measles exposures in Maricopa County and Flagstaff serve as a reminder of the importance of vaccination and public health measures. By staying informed, monitoring for symptoms, and getting vaccinated, you can protect yourself and help prevent the spread of this highly contagious disease.
Have you or a loved one been affected by the recent measles outbreak in Arizona? Contact us today for a consultation to discuss your legal options.