Utah health officials have confirmed two additional cases of measles, bringing the state’s total count to five. All five individuals diagnosed with the highly contagious illness are unvaccinated, according to the Utah Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS).
Among the confirmed cases are two pregnant women and a minor, marking the first confirmed child case in this recent rise in Utah. State Epidemiologist Dr. Leisha Nolen expressed concern, noting that two of the five patients required hospitalization due to the severity of their symptoms, although all are reported to be improving.
“To know that two out of five people had to go to the hospital for their measles infections is quite concerning to us,” Nolen stated.
The two newest cases include an adult and a minor, one residing in Utah County and the other in the southwest health district. Health officials were not surprised by these additions, as they were anticipated among individuals previously known to have been exposed to the virus. More cases are expected in the coming weeks among other unvaccinated individuals with potential exposure.
Significant Risks for Vulnerable Populations
The presence of measles in two pregnant women is particularly alarming to health officials. Measles during pregnancy significantly increases the risk of severe infection, hospitalization, premature birth, miscarriage, stillbirth, and serious complications for the newborn. The measles vaccine cannot be given during pregnancy. For this reason, officials strongly urge women who are considering becoming pregnant to ensure they are vaccinated against measles before conception to protect both themselves and their future child.
Infants under one year old are also especially vulnerable as they are not yet eligible for routine vaccination. Their primary protection comes from the immunity of vaccinated adults and children around them. Dr. Andrew Pavia, from the University of Utah Division of Pediatrics, notes that while routine vaccination starts around age 12 months, an earlier dose (6-12 months) may be advisable if an infant is at higher risk, such as during an outbreak or international travel. Babies under six months receive some temporary protection from maternal antibodies if the mother is vaccinated, highlighting the importance of mothers being up-to-date on their vaccines before pregnancy.
Utah’s Vaccination Landscape
Despite the rise in cases, Nolen emphasized that with over 90% of Utahns vaccinated against measles, the majority of the population is “highly protected.” Vaccinated individuals who get infected typically experience milder illness, recover faster, and are less likely to spread the disease.
However, officials do have specific concerns about areas with lower vaccination rates, particularly in schools in southwestern Utah, where rapid spread could occur if an exposure takes place.
The measles-mumps-rubella (MMR) vaccine is highly effective, offering 97% protection against measles after two doses. Unvaccinated individuals are strongly encouraged to discuss the risks of measles with their healthcare providers.
Symptoms and Public Exposure Information
Measles symptoms typically appear 7 to 14 days after exposure. Early signs include:
High fever (often over 102.2°F or 39°C)
Cough
Runny nose
Red, watery eyes
A characteristic rash usually develops about four days after the fever begins, starting on the face near the hairline and spreading downwards.
Public health investigations are underway for the newest cases to identify any potential exposure sites. Regarding one of the earlier confirmed cases (which was not travel-related, suggesting local transmission), health officials previously identified potential public exposures at:
Timpanogos Regional Emergency Room: June 14, 2:14 p.m. to 7:02 p.m.
Parkway Health Center in Orem: June 13 (specific time not provided)
Anyone who was at these locations during the specified times, or up to two hours afterward, should monitor themselves for symptoms, especially if unvaccinated.
Measles is among the most contagious diseases known. If you suspect you have been exposed or are developing symptoms, it is crucial to call a healthcare provider by phone first before visiting a clinic or hospital. This prevents potentially exposing others in healthcare settings.
While acknowledging the state’s high overall vaccination rate makes the current situation different from the COVID-19 pandemic, Nolen stressed the importance of minimizing infections and their severity in Utah. The state’s recent cases are part of a broader national measles outbreak that has seen over 1,200 cases reported across the country.
