Return to Search

First Measles Case Reported at Denver Health

April 08, 2025

DH Main Campus

On Sunday, April 6, a pediatric patient seen at Denver Health tested positive for measles. To our knowledge, this is the first confirmed measles case in the Denver metro area during the current national outbreak. You can read the full announcement from the Denver Department of Public Health & Environment.

The patient, an infant who was too young to be vaccinated, had recently traveled to a region in Mexico where a measles outbreak is occurring. This case is unrelated to the recent case in Pueblo and appears to have originated from international travel rather than local transmission.

Thanks to Denver Health’s strong public health protocols and months of preparation, our team quickly identified symptoms, conducted appropriate testing and took all necessary steps to protect our patients, staff, and community. We are working closely with local public health officials to identify and support individuals who may have been exposed.

What You Should Know

Our infectious disease, pediatric and public health experts want to share these important reminders:

  • Measles is preventable. Two doses of the MMR (measles, mumps, rubella) vaccine provide strong protection.
  • If you’ve had two doses, you’re protected. There’s no need to check antibody levels or get a booster.
  • Symptoms of measles include fever, cough, runny nose and conjunctivitis, followed by a distinctive rash.
  • Be aware if you've recently traveled. If you or your child develops a rash with fever and has recently been abroad (including Mexico or Canada) or visited states with outbreaks (like Texas, New Mexico, Ohio or Kansas), contact your health care provider.

Our Commitment to Community Safety

Denver Health is fully prepared to respond to cases like this. Led by Heather Young, MD, director of Infection Prevention, and Bob Belknap, MD, executive director of the Denver Health Public Health Institute, our team is meeting regularly to ensure our systems are ready to monitor, detect and respond to infectious diseases like measles. We also continue to provide vaccinations to protect our community and reduce the risk of further spread.

Your health and safety are always our top priority.