Measles Case Reported in Utah
SALT LAKE CITY – Utah public health officials have confirmed the first measles case originating in the state in over two years, alerting anyone who may have been in contact with the affected individual to monitor for symptoms.
The Utah Department of Health and Human Services announced that an unvaccinated adult from Utah County has tested positive for measles. State epidemiologist Dr. Leisha Nolen mentioned the individual is between 20 and 40 years old, although no further identifying details were provided.
This unvaccinated person has no history of out-of-state exposure, indicating that the infection was likely transmitted within Utah. The department hasn’t identified any additional measles cases up to this point.
During the individual’s “infectious period” before diagnosis, they visited multiple public places, including the Timpanogos Regional Emergency Room on June 14 between 2:14 p.m. and 7:02 p.m., as well as the Parkway Health Center in Orem on June 13, though specific timing details for the latter visit remain unclear.
According to Nolen, the person sought medical help due to measles symptoms and was advised to quarantine at home, which they did after the diagnosis.
Health officials cautioned that anyone who was at these locations during the stated times—or even two hours afterward—might have been exposed to the disease.
Nolen also expressed concern about potential additional cases in Utah, highlighting that the patient did not travel out of state, which suggests the virus is circulating locally. She mentioned that the source of this case remains unidentified, hinting at further transmission possibilities.
Measles Symptoms
The Utah Department of Health noted that measles symptoms usually develop seven to 14 days post-exposure. Early signs include a high fever (over 102.2°F or 39°C), a cough, a runny nose, or red eyes. A rash typically appears about four days after the fever begins.
This rash, characterized by its common emergence at the hairline and subsequent spread down the body, is a primary indicator of measles. Nolen emphasized that infected individuals can transmit the virus before showing symptoms. Health officials advise anyone developing symptoms to stay away from others and consult their healthcare provider.
“It’s crucial to call ahead before visiting a clinic or hospital to minimize further exposure,” the department stated.
More than 90% of Utah residents have been vaccinated against measles, providing them with strong protection against the infection. However, infants under one year cannot receive this vaccine, leaving them vulnerable to the disease.
Nolen encouraged individuals to check in with their doctors about their vaccination history and suggested considering antibody testing to determine immunity levels. She clarified that receiving extra doses of the vaccine poses no risk and recommended that people receive two doses to ensure complete protection.
The Utah Department of Health reassured the community that proactive measures are being taken to manage the situation and advised unvaccinated individuals to consult their doctors regarding the vaccine.
Notably, the last reported measles case in Utah was two years ago and involved an international traveler.
For further information on measles, click here.
This story may be updated.
