Measles Cases in Utah Rise to Five
SALT LAKE CITY — Utah State Epidemiologist Leisha Nolen announced on Thursday that the state confirmed two more cases of measles, bringing the total count to five, with two of those cases involving pregnant women.
Nolen expressed concern over the worsening symptoms exhibited by some individuals, which resulted in two overnight hospital stays. However, she assured that all are now recovering.
“It’s definitely worrying for us. We want to minimize infections as much as possible here in Utah, and keep them mild,” she noted.
According to the Utah Department of Health and Human Services, one new case involves a minor, while the other is an adult. One resides in Utah County, while the other is from the southwest health district.
Nolen indicated that these additional cases were anticipated, as they were linked to previous exposures. She expects more cases to emerge due to ongoing exposure among unvaccinated individuals. All five current cases involve people who have not received vaccinations.
In light of the cases involving pregnant women, Nolen urged those considering pregnancy to get vaccinated against measles, as the vaccine isn’t administered during pregnancy. This can help alleviate potential risks during pregnancy.
“Pregnant individuals are at a higher risk for severe infections if they contract measles, and this can lead to complications like premature birth, or even loss of the baby. We definitely want to encourage protective measures for both mothers and their unborn children,” she stated.
The announcement of the new cases followed two others noted earlier this week, also from Utah County and the southwest health district.
Health officials revealed that the first diagnosed individual visited several public places during their infectious period before receiving a diagnosis. Notably, they visited the Timpanogos Regional Emergency Room on June 14 and the Parkway Health Center in Orem on June 13. However, no additional locations have been identified for potential public exposure to measles at this time.
Despite the rising cases, Nolen reassured that with 90% of Utahns vaccinated, there isn’t a significant cause for alarm. She noted that vaccinated individuals are likely to experience milder infections and recover more quickly, which helps prevent further spread.
For unvaccinated individuals, she recommended discussing the risks of not getting vaccinated against measles with healthcare providers.
Children under one year old can’t receive the vaccine, so she emphasized the importance of ensuring all surrounding adults are vaccinated. Current research suggests that two vaccinations, given at ages one and four or later, provide lifelong protection against measles.
Nolen also advised anyone feeling unwell to stay home, not only to reduce the risk of spreading measles but other illnesses as well.
“We’re not in a COVID pandemic anymore. Most people are protected, which is a different scenario altogether. Measles has been around for ages, so our situation is quite different now,” Nolen remarked.
However, she pointed out particular concern for the southwestern part of Utah, where schools report lower vaccination rates, increasing the risk of rapid outbreaks if exposure occurs there.
Initial symptoms of measles usually emerge seven to 14 days post-exposure, including high fever, cough, runny nose, and red eyes. A rash commonly develops four days after the onset of fever, starting at the hairline.
The health department advised anyone exposed to measles or exhibiting symptoms to contact a healthcare provider prior to visiting a clinic, to avoid spreading the illness.
“Measles is a highly contagious disease that can result in severe illness, particularly in young children, pregnant women, and those with weakened immune systems,” the health department cautioned.
