Utah Confirms First Local Measles Case, Unknown Source Sparks Concern
Public health officials in Utah have announced the state’s first confirmed case of measles originating within Utah in at least two years. The diagnosis involves an unvaccinated adult in Utah County, prompting immediate concern as the source of infection remains unknown and the individual visited public locations while contagious.
State Epidemiologist Dr. Leisha Nolen confirmed the case, identifying the patient as an adult between 20 and 40 years old. Crucially, the individual reported no out-of-state exposures, indicating the highly contagious virus was transmitted locally within Utah. As of the initial announcement (June 20, 2025), health officials had not identified any other confirmed cases, but Dr. Nolen stated they must suspect additional, as-yet-undiagnosed cases are circulating due to the unknown origin.
The last measles case in Utah, two years prior, was in an international traveler, underscoring the significance of this current case being acquired within the state. The Utah County Health Department is actively working with the individual and their close contacts, advising monitoring for symptoms and isolation if necessary.
Potential Public Exposure Locations Identified
Before receiving a diagnosis, the infected individual visited several public places in Utah County during their infectious period. Health officials are warning people who were at the following locations during the specified times, or up to two hours afterward, that they may have been exposed to measles:
Parkway Health Center (145 W. 1300 South, Orem) on June 13. (Specific time is being confirmed).
Timpanogos Regional Emergency Room (750 W. 800 North, Orem) on June 14 between 2:14 p.m. and 7:02 p.m.
If you were at these sites during these windows, it is critical to monitor yourself and unvaccinated family members for symptoms.
Recognizing Measles Symptoms & What to Do
Measles is a highly contagious disease that can cause severe illness. Symptoms typically begin 7 to 14 days after exposure, though they can take up to three weeks to appear.
Initial signs often include:
High fever (often exceeding 102.2°F or 39°C)
Cough
Runny nose
Red, watery eyes (conjunctivitis)
A characteristic measles rash usually develops about four days after the fever starts. This rash typically appears first at the hairline and then spreads downwards across the face, neck, and body.
Crucial Advice: Measles can spread before the rash even appears. If you or someone you know develops symptoms consistent with measles, especially if you may have been exposed, stay away from others immediately. Call your healthcare provider first before visiting a clinic, urgent care, or hospital. This allows staff to take precautions to prevent further spread to other patients and healthcare workers.
Understanding the Risk and Severity
While many recover, measles can lead to serious complications, particularly in unvaccinated individuals. These can include:
Diarrhea and ear infections
Pneumonia (a common cause of death in young children with measles)
Encephalitis (swelling of the brain), which can cause seizures and permanent brain damage
Severe outcomes are more likely in unvaccinated children under 5, unvaccinated pregnant individuals, and those with compromised immune systems.
Nationally, the United States has seen a significant increase in measles cases this year. As of mid-June 2025, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reported over 1,200 confirmed cases across more than 30 states and jurisdictions, with major outbreaks occurring in states like Texas, New Mexico, and Oklahoma. Tragically, there have been three measles-related deaths reported in the U.S. in the past year. Approximately 1 in 20 children with measles require hospitalization.
Protection Through Vaccination: The MMR Vaccine
The best defense against measles is the safe and effective Measles, Mumps, and Rubella (MMR) vaccine. Two doses of the MMR vaccine provide about 97% protection against measles infection and significantly reduce the severity of illness if a vaccinated person does get sick.
While over 90% of Utahns are vaccinated against measles, providing strong community protection, certain groups remain vulnerable. Infants younger than one year old cannot receive the vaccine, and individuals with compromised immune systems may not be fully protected even if vaccinated. Public health officials have also expressed concern about potential declines in vaccination rates among young children in some areas, which can create pockets of vulnerability.
People born before 1957 are generally considered immune due to likely childhood infection. For others, ensuring you are fully vaccinated is key. If you are unsure of your vaccination status, you can check state immunization records, consult your healthcare provider, or get an antibody test to confirm immunity. Receiving an additional dose of the MMR vaccine poses no known risk if immunity status is uncertain.
Utah public health officials are taking immediate action to contain the situation and reassure the community. They strongly encourage any unvaccinated individuals to discuss the MMR vaccine with their doctor as soon as possible. Vaccination is the critical tool for reducing the risk of infection and preventing severe outcomes from this potentially deadly disease.
