Utah’s Struggle with Measles Outbreaks

For the past year, Utah has been battling measles outbreaks — a scenario that may jeopardize the United States’ measles-free status. Since the first case emerged on June 20, 2025, over 680 individuals have fallen ill.

Unlike outbreaks seen in Texas, South Carolina, and Arizona, Utah’s cases spread across various regions, affecting under-vaccinated communities in nearly all of its counties.

Measles cases infiltrated healthcare facilities, retail stores, restaurants, and youth sports events. A notable incident in February occurred at a state high school wrestling championship, resulting in at least 46 new cases among attendees.

This disease is highly contagious, leading to symptoms like rashes, high fevers, severe coughing, ear infections, and diarrhea. While the majority eventually recover, vulnerable groups — including young infants, pregnant individuals, and those with compromised immune systems — face more severe complications such as pneumonia and neurological issues, which can manifest years later.

The measles vaccine, when administered in two doses, is safe and effective, boasting a 97% success rate.

Although the outbreak has calmed somewhat recently, state epidemiologist Leisha Nolen is apprehensive about the upcoming school season and colder weather, which could trigger another surge.

“It’s still circulating, and if it hits a vulnerable community, it could escalate significantly,” she remarked.

The Effect of Vaccination Rates in Utah

The southwestern region of Utah has seen the most significant transmission, with 265 cases reported since last summer. Overall, measles has affected 22 out of the state’s 29 counties.

In the rural northeast, known as the “tricounty” health area, declining childhood vaccination rates have also facilitated the spread. Last school year, over 16% of kindergarteners in this region lacked their measles vaccinations, compared to a statewide figure of 12.8%. This falls short of the 95% vaccination coverage required to prevent outbreaks.

This spring, the TriCounty Health Department documented 74 measles cases following the youth wrestling tournament. The area has experienced growing vaccine hesitancy, according to Sydnee Lyons, the health department’s public information officer.

Despite the extensive outbreak, health officials are viewing TriCounty’s response as a success. Their strategies included excluding unvaccinated students from in-person attendance and encouraging isolation for those infected. Their outreach efforts to promote vaccination were reportedly effective.

TriCounty’s infectious disease specialist, Cyndie Mattinson, shared an anecdote about a parent hesitant to engage with health authorities due to fears of being judged. After reassurance from a school nurse, Mattinson ended up having a productive conversation with her, challenging the preconceived notions about health officials.

“We aim to be a supportive resource rather than enforcers,” noted Mattinson.

Evaluating Measles in the U.S.

Utah’s ongoing battles against measles could influence whether the U.S. retains its measles-free designation. Public health officials designate an area as measles-free only after a year of no continuous local transmission.

The national tally for measles cases stood at 2,104 as of June 18, nearing last year’s peak. While Utah has been grappling with measles, it’s uncertain if the initial clusters are linked to the larger outbreak detected along the Utah-Arizona border back in August. However, the majority of recent cases appear to originate within Utah itself.

In November, international health experts will convene to assess if the U.S. and Mexico have lost their elimination status — Canada lost its designation last year due to persistent outbreaks.

In the meantime, physicians in Utah continue to address community concerns while advocating for improved public health strategies.

Dr. Ellie Brownstein, the incoming president of the state chapter of the American Academy of Pediatrics, opposed a bill promoting easier access to vaccine exemptions during the peak of the outbreak. While that bill didn’t pass, she feels there hasn’t been a significant cultural awakening regarding measles’ resurgence.

“I’m skeptical that we can fully resolve this,” Brownstein confessed. “It seems there are enough people to keep it circulating.”