Measles Case Confirmed in Tucson, Arizona

Tucson, Arizona, January 2, 2026

A case of measles has been confirmed in Pima County, marking the first instance of the disease in the area recently. The affected individual, who traveled across the border, has been hospitalized and isolated. Authorities are conducting a public health investigation to trace contacts and exposure sites. Health officials emphasize the importance of vaccination in preventing further outbreaks.

Tucson, Arizona – Measles Case Confirmed, Public Health Investigation Underway

Health officials in Pima County have confirmed a case of measles, marking the first reported instance of the highly contagious disease in the county in the recent period. The individual, who had recently traveled across the border, has been promptly hospitalized and isolated in a Tucson medical facility to prevent further transmission. An intensive investigation by the Pima County Health Department is currently underway to identify potential exposure sites and trace contacts to mitigate any potential spread within the community.

This confirmation underscores the ongoing vigilance required by public health agencies to monitor and control infectious diseases across the state. Health authorities are actively working to inform residents about this development and to provide clear guidance on preventative measures.

Public Health Response and Community Vigilance

The Pima County Health Department, alongside the Arizona Department of Health Services and the Santa Cruz County Health and Human Services Department, is coordinating with healthcare providers and community partners to ensure a comprehensive response. This includes identifying individuals who may have been in contact with the confirmed case and advising them on appropriate steps, such as monitoring for symptoms and, if necessary, getting tested or vaccinated. The swift isolation of the affected individual in a medical facility in Tucson highlights the prompt action taken to contain the disease. Health officials have stated that the overall risk to the public is low, and there is no known public exposure currently.

Residents are urged to be highly vigilant for symptoms of measles, especially if they have recently traveled or been in crowded public spaces. Symptoms typically include a high fever, cough, runny nose, and red, watery eyes. A characteristic rash often appears three to five days after these initial symptoms, starting on the face and spreading down the body. Anyone experiencing these symptoms should contact their healthcare provider immediately, informing them of potential measles exposure before visiting in person to allow for appropriate isolation precautions. The measles virus can spread before symptoms start, up to four days before a rash appears.

Understanding Measles and Its Prevention

Measles is a serious viral infection that can cause severe disease, complications, and even death, especially for children under age 5 and people with severely weakened immune systems. It is known for its extreme contagiousness, spreading easily through the air when an infected person breathes, coughs, or sneezes. The virus can remain airborne or on surfaces for up to two hours after an infected person leaves an area. Complications can range from ear infections and diarrhea to more severe conditions such as pneumonia, encephalitis (brain swelling), permanent hearing problems or vision loss.

The most effective and safest way to prevent measles is through vaccination, specifically the Measles, Mumps, and Rubella (MMR) vaccine. The MMR vaccine is highly effective, providing long-lasting immunity. After two doses, around 99% of people will be protected against measles and rubella, and around 88% against mumps. For measles specifically, two doses are about 97% effective at preventing the disease, providing long-term immunity. One dose of the vaccine reduces the chances of getting sick with measles by around 95%.

Public health recommendations emphasize that children receive two doses of the MMR vaccine: the first dose between 12 and 15 months of age, and the second dose between 4 and 6 years of age, typically before they start school. Adults who are unsure of their vaccination status or who have not been vaccinated can consult their healthcare provider about receiving the vaccine, especially if they are health care workers, traveling internationally, or attending post-secondary education.

Historical Context of Measles in Arizona

Arizona has experienced measles activity in recent years, serving as a reminder of the importance of maintaining high vaccination rates. There have been 205 cases of measles in Arizona since June. In June 2025, measles cases were confirmed in Navajo County, Arizona, and an exposure at Phoenix Sky Harbor Airport in Maricopa County was also reported in June 2025.

Previously, in March 2019, Arizona health agencies confirmed a measles case in Pima County involving a 1-year-old child, which was the first confirmed case in the state that year. It is important to note that a suspected case in Pima County involving another 1-year-old child was later confirmed by the Arizona Department of Health Services to be a reaction to the measles vaccine side effect and not an active measles infection. The Pima County Health Director emphasized that the best way to keep measles out of the community, or to keep it contained if it comes, is to have a community vaccination rate above 95%. These historical instances highlight the recurring nature of measles challenges and the continuous need for public health vigilance and robust community immunity.

The Pima County Health Department encourages all residents to ensure their vaccinations are current and to seek reliable health information from official sources. Maintaining high vaccination coverage within the community is paramount to preventing widespread outbreaks and protecting vulnerable populations.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Here are some common questions and answers regarding the recent measles case in Pima County, Arizona.

• What is the latest news regarding measles in Pima County?

  Health officials in Pima County have confirmed a case of measles, marking the first reported instance of the highly contagious disease in the county in the recent period. An intensive investigation by the Pima County Health Department is currently underway to identify potential exposure sites and trace contacts.

• Where was the measles case confirmed in Pima County?

  The confirmed measles case was reported in Pima County, Arizona. The individual has been promptly hospitalized and isolated in a Tucson medical facility.

• What actions are health officials taking regarding the confirmed measles case?

  An intensive investigation by the Pima County Health Department is currently underway to identify potential exposure sites and trace contacts. The individual has been promptly hospitalized and isolated in a Tucson medical facility to prevent further transmission.

• What are the common symptoms of measles?

  Symptoms typically include a high fever, cough, runny nose, and red, watery eyes. A characteristic rash often appears three to five days after these initial symptoms, starting on the face and spreading down the body.

• How is measles prevented?

  The most effective and safest way to prevent measles is through vaccination, specifically the Measles, Mumps, and Rubella (MMR) vaccine.

• Has Arizona had measles cases recently?

  Yes, Arizona has experienced measles activity in recent years. In June 2025, measles cases were confirmed in Navajo County, Arizona, and an exposure at Phoenix Sky Harbor Airport in Maricopa County was also reported in June 2025.

Key Features Overview

Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic

HERE Resources

Arizona Faces Significant Measles Outbreak in Mohave County
Novi Water Main Break Leads to School Closures and Advisory
Surge in Measles Cases Triggers Health Concerns in Texas
Arizona Joins Forces in Major Lawsuit Over Health Funding Cuts

Author: STAFF HERE PHOENIX WRITER

The PHOENIX STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREPhoenix.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Phoenix, Maricopa County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Waste Management Phoenix Open, Cactus League Spring Training, and Arizona State Fair. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Greater Phoenix Chamber of Commerce and Visit Phoenix, plus leading businesses in technology and healthcare that power the local economy such as Intel and Banner Health. As part of the broader HERE network, including HERETucson.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Arizona's dynamic landscape.