Measles is actively spreading in Salt Lake County.
Measles cases are rising in Salt Lake County, prompting health officials to urge residents to remain at home if they feel unwell.
Health officials stated, “If you have any symptoms of illness at all: stay home, don’t participate in activities,” in a recent announcement.
This year, 28 cases have been confirmed in the county, according to Nicholas Rupp from the Salt Lake County Health Department. While that number might not seem like much, it’s worth noting that there were only four cases reported throughout 2025. Almost all the new cases involve individuals who have not received the measles, mumps, rubella (MMR) vaccine.
The Utah Department of Health and Human Services provides an online list of known measles exposure sites across the state. In Salt Lake County, you can find at least six locations, such as the Salt Lake City International Airport and Highland High School.
A case at Highland High was identified on Tuesday, but the student had been on campus for several days showing symptoms, Rupp mentioned.
District officials quickly collaborated with the health department to identify potential exposures, especially among unvaccinated students, said district representative Yándary Chatwin.
Students who may have been exposed are being advised to quarantine to prevent any further spread of the virus.
The message to those exempted from vaccines was clear: “Because of your vaccine exemption status, you must be excluded from school to ensure you are not infected and transmitting measles to others in the community,” it read. “During this quarantine period, you should not leave home. You’re not allowed to attend school or any related activities.” The quarantine is expected to end on March 6.
Vaccinated students were informed of the exposure but were not required to quarantine.
Measles is extremely contagious, Rupp stressed. Often, people mistake it for a cold or flu until the characteristic rash appears. “You can walk into a room where someone who’s had measles has been within two hours prior, and if you’re unvaccinated, there’s a high chance—about 90%—of contracting measles,” he added.
Health officials anticipate continued increases in cases. Rupp remarked, “We will continue to see measles spread in Salt Lake County, particularly among unvaccinated individuals.”
The MMR vaccine is noted as the most effective protection. According to the county’s announcement, “Two doses of the MMR vaccine prevent over 97% of measles infections, and those vaccinated tend to experience milder symptoms if they do contract measles.”
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention currently suggests that adults vaccinated before 1968 should get at least one updated measles shot if they’re uncertain whether they had two doses when the regimen was established in 1989.
If you suspect you’ve been exposed, health officials recommend monitoring for symptoms for 21 days post-exposure. Initial symptoms may resemble a cold or flu, including cough, runny nose, and fever, which can lead individuals to think they’re just dealing with a typical respiratory issue. “But please stay home if you have any signs of illness,” advised Dorothy Adams, executive director of the Salt Lake County Health Department. “Especially now that we know measles is actively circulating in our community.”
