ADHS and Mohave County Announce End of Measles Outbreak

MEDIA CONTACT: JP Martin
MOBILE: 480-521-4043
EMAIL: pio@azdhs.gov

PHOENIX – The Arizona Department of Health Services (ADHS) and the Mohave County Department of Public Health (MCDPH) announced today that the measles outbreak connected to Arizona-Utah border communities has ended.

“The end of this outbreak reflects the commitment of an entire community,” said Melissa Palmer, Health Director for the Mohave County Department of Public Health. “Public health staff worked closely with healthcare providers, schools, community organizations, and local leaders to answer questions, provide resources, and support families throughout the outbreak. While we are encouraged by this milestone, vaccination remains the most effective way to protect individuals, families, and our community from measles.”

Public Health has been managing this outbreak since August of 2025. The last confirmed case was infectious at the end of April, and more than 42 days have passed without a new case being reported as part of this outbreak. This meets the public health standard for declaring a measles outbreak over, because 42 days represents two full 21-day incubation periods and is a clear indicator that spread has been disrupted. 

“While this outbreak has ended, measles continues to be reported across the country, and it remains a serious and highly contagious disease. Vaccination continues to be an important tool to help protect families in Arizona,” said Nicole Witt, Assistant Director for Preparedness at ADHS. “We are grateful to Mohave County, health care providers, schools, and community partners who helped identify exposures, support public health guidance, answer questions, and share accurate information.”

As cases continue to be reported, now is a good time for families to talk with a trusted health care provider about how to protect themselves from measles and other vaccine-preventable diseases. If you have questions about vaccines, it is okay to ask and get clear, reliable information from your trusted healthcare provider.

Measles is a preventable disease that can lead to complications such as pneumonia, brain inflammation, hospitalization, and death. It spreads easily through the air when an infected person breathes, coughs, or sneezes. The virus can remain in the air for up to two hours after an infected person has left the area.

The measles, mumps, and rubella vaccine, known as MMR, is safe and highly effective. Two doses of MMR vaccine provide strong protection against measles and help protect people who cannot be vaccinated, including infants and some people with weakened immune systems.

ADHS and MCDPH will continue monitoring for measles activity and encourage all Arizonans to make sure they and their children are protected with the MMR vaccine. For more information about measles symptoms, transmission, vaccination, and Arizona data, visit azhealth.gov/measles.

About Us: The Arizona Department of Health Services is committed to the health and well-being of every Arizonan. We provide reliable health information, support critical health services, and promote wellness throughout our state. Whether it’s managing health crises, offering vital resources, or driving community health initiatives, ADHS is here to ensure a healthier and safer Arizona for all. ADHS is nationally accredited by the Public Health Accreditation Board.