Measles Outbreak Hits Broomfield, Colorado Schools

Some parents forced to keep unvaccinated children home as officials work to contain spread

Published on Mar. 10, 2026

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A measles outbreak tied to local schools in Broomfield, Colorado has led some parents, especially those with infants too young to be vaccinated, to limit everyday activities and outings. Health officials are working to execute a response plan, with over 80 unvaccinated students currently excluded from Broomfield High and Middle Schools.

Why it matters

Measles is a highly contagious illness, and outbreaks can pose serious risks to vulnerable populations like young infants. This situation highlights the challenges parents face when balancing community health concerns with their child's development and socialization needs.

The details

The outbreak began last week at Broomfield High School and has since spread to the middle school, with seven confirmed cases so far. More than 95% of students in the Boulder Valley School District are vaccinated, but about 80 unvaccinated people have been excluded from the affected schools for 21 days after any new cases are identified.

  • The outbreak began last week at Broomfield High School.
  • The outbreak has since spread to Broomfield Middle School.
  • Seven related measles cases have been confirmed so far.
  • Unvaccinated students must wait 21 days after any new cases before returning to class.

The players

Savannah Tagget

A stay-at-home mom in Broomfield who has become more cautious with her four-month-old daughter, June, due to the outbreak.

Jason Vahling

The Public Health Director for the Broomfield Public Health and Environment, who says officials are working with other health officials to execute a prepared response plan.

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What they’re saying

“I don't want a baby who's hospitalized due to a preventable illness.”

— Savannah Tagget, Stay-at-home mom (CBS News)

“Thankfully, we have a public health playbook for this.”

— Jason Vahling, Public Health Director (CBS News)

What’s next

Health officials are continuing to keep a close eye on the situation and encourage residents to check their vaccination status and watch for symptoms as the 21-day monitoring period continues.

The takeaway

This outbreak highlights the ongoing challenges communities face in balancing public health concerns with individual freedoms, especially when it comes to vaccinations. It underscores the importance of robust public health infrastructure and community engagement to address emerging infectious disease threats.