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Possible measles exposure reported in Albuquerque
Health officials say an out-of-state visitor diagnosed with the disease stayed at a Quality Inn
Vials of the measles, mumps and rubella (MMR) vaccine are displayed. Two doses are 97% effective against measles.
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An overnight stop in Albuquerque by an out-of-state visitor diagnosed with measles prompted state health officials on Tuesday to warn of a potential exposure to the disease.
The New Mexico Department of Health said there was an exposure risk for anyone who was at the Quality Inn at 450 Paisano NE — on the northeast corner of Juan Tabo and Interstate 40 — from 11:45 p.m. Dec. 28 through 7 a.m. Dec. 29.
Robert Nott, a spokesperson for NMDOH, said the department did not have any further details on the person infected because they live in South Carolina.
"It's technically a South Carolina case," Nott said. "The state where it originated takes responsibility for the case, so it doesn't add a case to our load."
Nott said the department was notified by the South Carolina Department of Public Health about the visitor's diagnosis.
In 2025, New Mexico saw an outbreak of 100 measles cases in nine counties, with one case leading to death in Lea County. There have been no reported cases since mid-August, according to the Tuesday news release.
“This situation reminds us there continue to be active measles cases across the United States,” said Dr. Miranda Durham, NMDOH chief medical officer. “The measles, mumps and rubella (MMR) vaccine remains the best protection against measles.”
Measles symptoms begin with a cough, runny nose and red eyes before progressing to a fever and rash.
People remain infectious for about eight days, from four days before the onset of the rash until four days after. If you have those symptoms, call ahead to a medical provider before showing up at the office, Durham said.
Nakayla McClelland covers crime and breaking news. Reach her at nmcclelland@abqjournal.com or at 505-823-3857.
