Measles

On June 20, Utah reported its first confirmed measles case. Over the past week, the total number of cases in Utah is now up to 5 cases. There are 3 cases in Utah County (all thought to be unrelated), and 2 cases in the Southwest health district (Kane and Garfield counties). The public exposures for these cases have been limited, but please check the state’s website for updated exposure locations. https://epi.utah.gov/measles-response/

Current Known Public Exposures in Utah:

• Parkway Health Center (Orem) – June 13 – 12:30 pm – 3:00 pm
• Timpanogos Regional ER – June 14 – 2:00 pm – 9:00 pm

If you were at any of these locations during the times listed, watch for measles-like symptoms and use this link to fill out a survey to find out your risk for getting measles. The survey is available in both English and Spanish.

Measles symptoms typically appear 7–14 days after exposure, so if you were in the area during that window and begin to feel sick, please call your healthcare provider, or give us a call at 435-333-1500. People who have a high fever (101°F (39°C) or higher) and a cough, runny nose, or red eyes may have early stages of measles. A rash will usually appear after 4 days of fever. If you do develop symptoms you should stay away from other people and call your healthcare provider. Call first before you go to a clinic or hospital to prevent other people from exposure.

Measles Symptoms

Measles is a highly contagious viral disease characterized by symptoms such as:

• high fever
• cough and runny nose
• red eyes
• a distinctive red rash that typically starts on the face and spreads downward.

Complications include ear infections, diarrhea, pneumonia, encephalitis (brain swelling), and, in severe cases, death.

Transmission

The measles virus spreads through respiratory droplets when an infected person coughs or sneezes. It can remain infectious in the air for up to two hours after the infected person has left an area. Measles is so contagious that approximately 90% of non-immune individuals exposed to an infected person will also become infected.

Measles, Mumps, and Rubella (MMR) Vaccine

The MMR vaccine is a safe and effective way to prevent measles, mumps, and rubella. It contains live, attenuated (weakened) viruses that stimulate the immune system to protect against these diseases.

Effectiveness

• One Dose: Approximately 93% effective at preventing measles.
• Two Doses: Approximately 97% effective at preventing measles.

Vaccination Recommendations

• Children: The first dose is recommended at 12–15 months of age, and the second dose at 4–6 years of age.
• Adults Born Before 1957: Generally considered immune due to likely exposure to the virus before the vaccine became available. An exception is made for healthcare workers who should receive the vaccine.
• Adults Vaccinated Between 1963–1967: Individuals who received the inactivated (killed) measles vaccine during this period should be revaccinated with at least one dose of the live attenuated measles vaccine, as the inactivated vaccine was found to be ineffective.

Find instructions on how to access immunization records here.