Health officials in Mesa are warning residents to monitor for symptoms after three newly confirmed measles cases were linked to at least 10 public exposure locations across the city.
The Maricopa County Department of Public Health announced Wednesday that the cases are connected, though investigators have not yet identified a specific source of exposure. Officials said that likely means the infections were acquired within the community in Maricopa County.
Residents who visited several Mesa businesses, restaurants and gathering places between April 19 and May 3 are being urged to watch for symptoms for up to 21 days after potential exposure. The identified locations include churches, youth sports facilities, grocery stores, restaurants and retail shops concentrated largely around the Power Road corridor.
Among the exposure sites were Menchie’s Frozen Yogurt, Chili’s Grill & Bar, Chick-fil-A and In-N-Out Burger, along with retail locations including Target and Fry’s Food Store.
Health officials noted that the exposure windows include an additional two-hour buffer because the measles virus can remain airborne even after an infected person leaves an area.
The newly reported infections bring Maricopa County’s total measles cases to 13 so far in 2026. Statewide, Arizona has now recorded 90 confirmed measles cases this year, according to county health data.
The latest announcement follows a series of previous exposure alerts in the East Valley, including warnings tied to a youth basketball event at Highland Junior High School and earlier exposure sites in Queen Creek involving a Costco, Walmart and an Easter egg hunt hosted by Generation Church Queen Creek.
Public health officials continue to encourage residents to verify they are current on their measles, mumps and rubella (MMR) vaccinations, emphasizing that measles is highly contagious and spreads rapidly among unvaccinated individuals.
Symptoms generally develop seven to 12 days after exposure, though they can appear as late as 21 days afterward. Early signs often include high fever, cough, runny nose and red or watery eyes before the characteristic rash develops. The rash typically begins near the hairline and spreads downward across the body.
Officials said anyone who develops symptoms should stay home and contact a healthcare provider before seeking treatment in person so medical staff can prepare for potential exposure precautions.
