New Measles Exposure Site Identified in Maricopa County

Officials confirm sixth case of measles in the county this year

Apr. 16, 2026 at 10:39pm

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

A translucent, ghostly X-ray image of a basketball, its internal structure visible as glowing lines against a dark background, conceptually representing the measles exposure at a youth sports venue.An X-ray view of a basketball highlights the potential for measles transmission at a youth sports event in Maricopa County.Phoenix Today

Maricopa County health officials have confirmed a new case of measles that is not linked to any previous cases, highlighting the ongoing risk of local transmission. Anyone who attended a youth basketball game at a gym in Mesa on April 11 may have been exposed. This is the sixth measles case reported in the county so far in 2026.

Why it matters

Measles is a highly contagious viral illness that can lead to serious complications, especially in unvaccinated individuals. The identification of new exposure sites underscores the importance of vaccination and vigilance in containing the spread of measles within the community.

The details

The new measles case was confirmed on Thursday by Maricopa County officials. The potential exposure site was a youth basketball game held at a gym located at 6915 East Guadalupe Road in Mesa on Saturday, April 11 from 2 p.m. to 5 p.m. Measles symptoms include high fever, cough, runny nose, watery eyes, and a blotchy rash. Anyone who develops these symptoms is advised to stay home and contact a healthcare provider.

  • On Thursday, April 16, 2026, Maricopa County officials confirmed the sixth case of measles in the county this year.
  • The potential exposure site was a youth basketball game held on Saturday, April 11, 2026 from 2 p.m. to 5 p.m.

The players

Maricopa County

The county in Arizona where the new measles case and exposure site were identified.

Dr. Maria Merrick

The assistant medical director for the Maricopa County public health department, who previously issued a statement urging residents to get vaccinated against measles.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“We've prevented measles outbreaks for years by staying up to date on vaccinations. If you've been meaning to get the measles vaccine, this is your reminder. Measles spreads easily, and vaccination is the best way to protect yourself and others.”

— Dr. Maria Merrick, Assistant Medical Director, Maricopa County Public Health Department

What’s next

Public health officials are urging anyone who attended the basketball game at the Mesa gym on April 11 to monitor for measles symptoms and contact their healthcare provider if they develop any.

The takeaway

This latest measles case in Maricopa County underscores the ongoing need for vaccination and vigilance to prevent the spread of this highly contagious illness within the community. Maintaining high vaccination rates is crucial to protecting public health and avoiding potential outbreaks.