Phoenix Health Roundup: Measles Alerts, Water Safety Progress, and Dementia Support

Phoenix health snapshot: vaccines, water and brain health

Phoenix, AZ is navigating urgent infectious disease alerts while also celebrating progress in water safety and dementia support. Here is what local residents should know this week.

Measles exposure at Sky Harbor raises vaccination stakes

Maricopa County Department of Public Health recently warned about a measles exposure at Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport linked to a visiting traveler. Officials report ongoing community spread in the county and are urging residents to confirm they are current on measles, mumps and rubella (MMR) vaccination.

People who were at the airport during the listed exposure times are being asked to watch for fever, cough, runny nose and rash, and to call a provider or urgent care before arriving if they become ill. The alert comes as childhood vaccination rates across Arizona have fallen since the pandemic, making it easier for highly contagious viruses like measles to spread.

PFAS cleanup projects move Arizona water closer to federal goals

State environmental officials announced that several Arizona communities have eliminated per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances, or PFAS, from their drinking water years ahead of new federal deadlines. The projects, led by the Arizona Department of Environmental Quality, include system upgrades funded through a state investment targeted at small water providers.

While the highlighted work focuses on systems outside central Phoenix, the effort is important for Valley residents because PFAS chemicals can move across groundwater basins and are linked to increased risks of some cancers, immune problems and pregnancy complications. Health experts say these early projects show how regional planning and funding can protect larger metro areas over time.

Free dementia event offers help for families in Phoenix

Later this month, Banner Alzheimers Institute in central Phoenix will host a free community event focused on dementia education and caregiver support. The gathering will feature local partners offering information on diagnosis, clinical trials, legal planning, respite services and strategies for daily care.

With Arizona among the fastest-growing states for older adults, specialists expect more families to face memory loss and related conditions. Events like this can help caregivers recognize early warning signs, connect with resources before a crisis and learn how to reduce stress while supporting loved ones at home.

What Phoenix residents can do now

Check your and your childrens vaccine records, especially for MMR, and talk with a clinician if you are unsure of your status.
Review local water quality reports and stay informed about PFAS and other emerging contaminants in your area.
If you are worried about a family members memory or behavior changes, contact your primary care clinician or a memory clinic and consider attending community education events.

Sources

https://www.maricopa.gov/5302/Public-Health
https://www.axios.com/local/phoenix/2026/01/20/vaccination-rates-arizona-children-decline
https://azdeq.gov/pr/PFASMitigation
https://www.bannerhealth.com/newsroom/press-releases/alzheimers-community-event-feb-2026