Pinal County reported its first measles case of the season involving an individual in federal custody; the risk to the general community is considered low.
Pima County has confirmed a second measles case in a Tucson resident who contracted the virus after returning from international travel, despite being vaccinated.
Health officials stress that even one case is considered an outbreak due to the highly contagious nature of measles.
Two doses of the MMR vaccine are approximately 97% effective in preventing measles.
In January 2026, Arizona health officials are addressing new measles cases in Pinal and Pima Counties. The Pinal County Public Health Services District (PCPHSD) reported a case involving someone in federal custody, assuring the public that the overall risk remains low. Simultaneously, Pima County reported a case in a vaccinated Tucson resident who had recently traveled internationally.
Dr. Theresa Cullen, Pima County health director, highlighted the contagious nature of measles, emphasizing that a single case constitutes an outbreak. In 2025, Arizona reported 217 cases, underscoring the need for increased immunization rates. The MMR vaccine, administered in two doses, provides about 97% protection against measles.
The Pima County Health Department (PCHD) has identified potential exposure sites in Tucson, including El Rio Health Northwest and El Rio Health Congress. Individuals who may have been exposed and exhibit symptoms are advised to stay home, avoid contact with others, and contact their healthcare provider before seeking in-person care.
Symptoms of measles typically appear one to two weeks after exposure and include fever, cough, runny nose, red, watery eyes, and a rash that usually starts on the face and spreads downward.
How to Prepare
Ensure you and your family are fully vaccinated with the MMR vaccine.
If you suspect exposure, monitor for symptoms and contact your healthcare provider.
Stay informed about local health advisories and potential exposure locations.
Who This Affects Most
Unvaccinated individuals, especially children.
Travelers returning from international destinations.
People with compromised immune systems.
Q: How effective is the measles vaccine?
Two doses of the MMR vaccine are about 97% effective.
Q: What are the symptoms of measles?
Symptoms include fever, cough, runny nose, red, watery eyes, and a rash.
Q: Where can I get vaccinated in Pima County?
MMR vaccinations are available at Pima County Health Department Clinics, commercial pharmacies, primary care physicians, and federally qualified health centers like El Rio Health Congress.
Measles is highly contagious, and even vaccinated individuals can contract the virus, though with reduced severity.
Vaccination is the most effective way to protect yourself and your community.
Stay informed about potential exposure sites and monitor for symptoms if you suspect contact.
International travel can increase the risk of measles exposure.
Do you think increased vaccination efforts can effectively curb measles outbreaks? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
Share this article with others who need to stay ahead of this trend!
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