Measles Cases in Utah Reach Highest Levels in Over 30 Years

Utah’s measles cases have risen to at least 115, the most significant figure in over three decades. With 26 new diagnoses in just three weeks, health officials are worried that numbers could rise even higher, especially during the busy holiday season.

Dr. Leisha Nolen, the state epidemiologist, suspects there are more unreported cases. This situation is particularly alarming given that Utah hasn’t seen this level of measles cases since the early 1990s. Across the U.S., the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reported 1,912 cases in 2025, marking the highest count since measles was declared eliminated in 2000.

The U.S. risks losing its elimination status if outbreaks continue for more than a year. Recently, Canada was stripped of its eradication status.

In Utah, the initial cases appeared mainly in the southern regions near the Arizona border, but the Utah Department of Health noted reports from central and northern areas as well. During a recent press briefing, Nolen mentioned confirmed cases in Salt Lake, Davis, Utah, and Wasatch counties. This disease is highly contagious, lingering in the air for up to two hours, making it easy for transmission.

She explained that if 20 individuals who are unvaccinated or have never had measles were exposed, around 18 would likely contract the virus. That’s significantly more contagious than the flu or COVID-19.

On a positive note, about 90% of Utah residents are vaccinated against measles, but herd immunity requires a 95% vaccination rate. This immunity protects those who cannot be vaccinated, including very young infants, who are particularly vulnerable.

Approximately 70% of the cases so far involve children, mostly those who were unvaccinated, but there were a few breakthrough cases where vaccinated individuals still fell ill.

Measles: A Potentially Severe Illness

While some measles cases can be mild, Utah has seen 12 hospitalizations this year. The demographic most at risk includes children under 5, adults over 20, pregnant women, and individuals with weakened immune systems.

The CDC outlines a range of complications from measles, which can include common issues like ear infections and diarrhea, as well as more severe conditions, such as pneumonia and brain inflammation. For pregnant women, risks include miscarriage or premature delivery. Those with compromised immune systems, young children, and older adults can face even more severe outcomes, including blindness or death.

Measles has a specific progression. Initially, symptoms include a high fever, cough, runny nose, and watery eyes, followed by distinctive white spots in the mouth. A rash typically appears a few days later, starting on the face and spreading.

Strategies to Prevent Spread

During a recent national vaccination briefing, Dr. Mona Amin, a pediatrician, emphasized that the risk of contracting measles outweighs any concern regarding the vaccine, which is well-tolerated and effective. The vaccine, deemed 95% effective, has a long history of safety, according to Nolen.

Both Nolen and health expert Adams advised the public to contact healthcare providers if they suspect illness or have been exposed, as presenting in person without prior notice could risk further transmission in waiting rooms. This proactive approach allows providers to take necessary precautions.

Due to the outbreak, there’s talk about changing vaccination guidelines for infants, who typically receive their measles shot at 12 months. Nolen remarked that while it’s not standard practice to vaccinate infants as young as six months, it might be a reasonable option given the current outbreak. These infants would still receive the standard dose at the usual time for their age.

Those who are unvaccinated and exposed can also receive a measles vaccine within a few days for added protection against severe illness. Adams highlighted the importance of contact tracing to prevent further spread, as health departments investigate confirmed cases to alert potential contacts about symptoms to watch out for.

She acknowledged that some people might be suspicious of receiving calls from unknown numbers asking health-related questions. She encouraged anyone uncertain to verify the caller’s affiliation with their local health department, rather than letting apprehension hinder potentially helpful communication.

Since many might not suspect measles until the rash appears, the timeframe for effective treatment can be narrow, reinforcing the importance of prevention, Adams concluded.