SALT LAKE CITY
State health officials have reported two additional cases of measles in Utah, raising the total to three infections. This was announced on Tuesday.
One of the new cases involves a resident from Utah County, while the other comes from the southwest health district, according to a release from the Utah Department of Health and Human Services.
Last week, the first confirmed measles case in the state in over two years was reported, which also involved an adult from Utah County.
Importantly, all three individuals have not been vaccinated, and they are not linked to each other, officials noted.
Investigation efforts are underway to determine if there are locations where possible exposures might have taken place, the release stated.
Health officials shared that during the initial person’s infectious period, before they received a diagnosis, the individual frequented several public places. These include the Timpanogos Regional Emergency Room on June 14 and the Parkway Health Center in Orem on June 13, although no specific timing for the latter visit was provided.
Dr. Leisha Nolen, the state epidemiologist, mentioned that the individual sought medical attention due to suspected measles symptoms and was advised to quarantine, which they followed after their diagnosis.
“People who were present at these locations during the same time or even two hours afterward could have been exposed to the virus,” the department mentioned.
Health officials urged anyone who might have encountered the infected resident, particularly the unvaccinated, to monitor for symptoms.
Nolen expressed concern about potential additional measles cases in Utah, emphasizing that the individual had not traveled outside of the state, suggesting the outbreak started within Utah.
Symptoms of measles, such as high fever, cough, runny nose, or red eyes, typically emerge seven to 14 days post-exposure. A rash generally appears around four days after the fever begins.
Anyone who thinks they might have been exposed to measles or is experiencing symptoms should first contact a healthcare provider before heading to a clinic to avoid spreading the virus.
The health department noted that a significant portion of Utahns—over 90%—have been vaccinated against measles, providing them strong protection against infection. Measles is particularly contagious and can lead to severe complications, especially in young children, pregnant women, and individuals with compromised immune systems.
