Article
March 9, 2026
Colorado Measles Outbreak: What UNC Community Members Should Know
Stay informed about recent measles cases in Colorado and how to stay safe and healthy
Measles is a highly contagious, yet preventable disease. Ninety-seven percent of confirmed U.S. cases involve individuals who are unvaccinated or have unknown vaccination status. While measles cases in Colorado have historically been rare, state health officials recently confirmed Colorado’s first official measles outbreak of the year. Nationally, more than 1,100 cases have been reported so far this year.
In the event of a measles outbreak at UNC, community members (including students, faculty and staff) who do not have proof of immunity may be required to quarantine for an extended period or may be removed from university housing. If a student is removed from university housing, the university would not be responsible for the student’s off-campus expenses.
With spring break travel approaching, the University Health Clinic (UHC) recommends the following:
- If you are unvaccinated against MMR (measles, mumps, rubella): Consider receiving the MMR vaccine.
- If you are unaware of your vaccination status: Confirm your immunity with a simple blood (titer) test.
The MMR vaccine is effective and safe for most people. Visit this webpage for additional information about who should and should not get vaccinated.
Vaccination and testing at the University Health Clinic
Measles vaccine and titer tests are both available in the UHC to students and employees on a walk-in basis from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Mondays, Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Fridays. Individuals who want to confirm their immunity via titer will first need to meet with a UHC medical provider. The UHC accepts many health insurance plans and will bill insurance for services provided.
Additional vaccination and testing options
Other vaccination options include off-campus healthcare providers and local pharmacies. Make sure to confirm availability of MMR vaccine before attending.
To get a titer without a doctor’s order, search the internet for “Direct Access Labs.”
Questions? E-mail debra.miller@unco.edu. For more information on how to avoid measles risk, visit the Centers for Disease Control website.
