Photo Credit: Centers for Disease Control (CDC)
(GILBERT, AZ.) – Are there really measles cases in Gilbert? Officials say yes. Several local businesses have reported possible measles cases as the United States edges closer to losing its measles eradication status.
A recent press release from the Arizona Department of Health Services (ADHS) on Jan. 15 states that there have been at least three possible cases in Maricopa county.
Locations include Sam’s Club on Gilbert Rd., EOS Fitness on Val Vista Rd., and Target on Warner Rd. The statement encourages residents who were present at these times between Jan. 13 and Jan. 15 are encouraged to continue to monitor themselves for symptoms for up to 21 days following a potential exposure.
The next day, another press release was issued to announce a possible exposure at Hale Theatre Arizona on W. Page Avenue from Jan. 5 through Jan. 9.
An additional press release was published by Maricopa County yesterday, Jan. 28 detailing what is possibly a much broader exposure, listing Arizona Athletic Grounds on Ellsworth Rd. as a possible exposure site affecting those in contact with spectator areas such as “bleachers and viewing areas” surrounding the field.
These possible exposures are specifically in relation to Jan. 23 and Jan. 24 events, and any attendees should monitor for symptoms until Feb. 14.
According to the Centers for Disease Control (CDC), these symptoms can include but are not limited to:
Fever
Red, irritated, or watery eyes
Cough
White spots in mouth
Red spots, often beginning at the hairline
Measles is classified by the CDC as a highly contagious disease that can be dangerous for at-risk populations such as young children and the elderly, much like other infections such as the Influenza virus and COVID-19.
Photo Credit: Centers for Disease Control (CDC) / Three-Day Measles Rash
Given the rising severity of the situation, OpGov.ai reached out to state and local officials for guidance on steps being taken to ensure residents stay safe and healthy.
Maricopa County Public Health Department Communications Manager Sonia Singh encouraged residents to use its ADHS page to stay up-to-date on current reported measles cases, and to find more information about how to help prevent the spread of infection.
“This [page] includes information on case counts at the county level (we do not release that information at the city level), public exposure sites, and links to recent press releases, as well as the basics of measles like how it’s spread, what the symptoms are, and how to prevent it.”, she states in an email.
Gilbert Spokesperson Joanna Guzman issued the following statement to OpGov.ai via email in regards to the recent measles outbreak, citing the importance of staying informed and taking advantage of public resources, such as free measles vaccinations for both children and adults.
“Since the start of the year, Maricopa County Public Health has identified four locations in Gilbert as potential measles exposure sites. Three confirmed measles cases have been diagnosed within Maricopa County, though the County has not released city-specific information. Gilbert is identified only as a possible exposure location.”
“Public health monitoring and response for measles is led by the Maricopa County Public Health Department in coordination with the Arizona Department of Health Services. The County has distributed an Enhanced Surveillance Alert with guidance on symptoms, exposure timelines, and steps residents can take to stay informed.”
“Residents who believe they may have been exposed or who have questions are encouraged to consult official public health resources. Maricopa County offers a free vaccination program for children and adults as they recommend that vaccination remains the most effective way to prevent measles.”
Guzman urges residents to monitor themselves for symptoms and act promptly on them should they appear, stating, “Anyone experiencing symptoms or concerned about exposure should contact their healthcare provider or medical facility by phone before arriving for care.”
To learn more about measles and how to stay safe, visit the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) website, which offers information on how measles spreads, vaccination recommendations, and how to prepare for travel amid an active outbreak.
To add to or correct information in this report, please email me at tracy.t@lead4earth.org or leave a comment below.
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