Measles Exposure Alert Issued Following Unvaccinated Traveler Diagnosis
An unvaccinated traveler diagnosed with measles may have exposed thousands of people at Denver Union Station on Tuesday, September 15th, and at a hotel in Steamboat Springs on Wednesday, September 16th, according to the Colorado Department of Public Health and…
Denver, CO, September 18, 2026 —
Health officials in Colorado are alerting the public to potential measles exposure after an unvaccinated individual diagnosed with the highly contagious disease visited multiple locations, including a major transit hub and a hotel. The Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment (CDPHE) issued the advisory following the diagnosis.
According to the CDPHE, the unvaccinated traveler was present at Denver Union Station on Tuesday, September 15th. This location is a central point for public transportation and sees a large volume of visitors daily.
Following the visit to Denver Union Station, the individual also stayed at a hotel in Steamboat Springs on Wednesday, September 16th. Details regarding the specific hotel name or the extent of potential exposure at the lodging facility were not immediately provided.
Measles is a viral illness that spreads easily through the air when an infected person coughs or sneezes. Symptoms typically appear 7 to 14 days after infection and can include fever, cough, runny nose, and a characteristic rash. The CDPHE is working to identify and notify individuals who may have been exposed. The agency has not provided information on the number of people potentially exposed beyond stating “thousands” were likely present at Denver Union Station during the specified timeframe.
Health authorities are urging anyone who may have been in the vicinity of these locations during the dates and times mentioned to monitor for symptoms of measles. Individuals who develop symptoms are advised to contact their healthcare provider immediately and to call ahead before visiting a clinic or hospital to prevent further spread.
The vaccination status of the traveler, noted as unvaccinated, highlights the importance of immunization in preventing outbreaks of preventable diseases like measles. The CDPHE has not released further information regarding public health recommendations beyond symptom monitoring and seeking medical advice.
Story summarized from the original created by Óscar Contreras on www.denver7.com, see more information here.
