The Custer County Board of Health meeting held on May 22, 2025, focused on local epidemiology, public health initiatives, and disease prevention strategies. The meeting began with a report on recent pneumonia cases among school-aged children, where four cases were identified in April. All affected children received antibiotics, and one required oxygen support. The outbreak was linked to a sleepover, but fortunately, it did not spread further.

The discussion then shifted to an awareness campaign regarding measles, which has seen a resurgence in Colorado. Although Custer County has not reported any cases, five cases have been confirmed statewide, with recent exposures noted in Pueblo and Denver. The Board emphasized the importance of vaccination and encouraged residents to stay informed through the Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment (CDPHE).

Attention was also given to the yellow fever mosquito, Aedes aegypti, which has been detected in Grand Junction. This mosquito is known to carry diseases such as Zika and dengue. While no cases have been reported, the Board is monitoring the situation closely and implementing control measures.

The meeting highlighted the ongoing national measles outbreak, with over a thousand confirmed cases across 31 states. The Board expressed concern about the implications of measles in modern society, particularly for working parents who may face significant financial repercussions if required to isolate due to exposure.

In addition to these discussions, the Board reported an increase in vaccination rates, attributing this to their awareness efforts. They also resumed tuberculosis testing, completed nine tests, and discussed the importance of lead poisoning prevention, noting 18 cases over the past two decades.

The meeting concluded with updates on COVID-19 vaccination strategies, as the Board awaits new recommendations for the fall season. Overall, the meeting underscored the importance of public health communication and proactive measures in managing community health risks.