SALT LAKE CITY — In a concerning development, Utah health officials announced on Tuesday that two more adults have been diagnosed with measles, bringing the total number of cases in the state to three. According to a news release from the Utah Department of Health and Human Services, one of the new cases involves a resident from Utah County, while the other is from the southwest health district.
Last week, health officials reported the first case of measles in Utah in over two years, which also involved an adult from Utah County. Alarmingly, all three diagnosed individuals are unvaccinated and are not connected to one another, highlighting a potential resurgence of this highly contagious disease. Ongoing public health investigations are in place to identify locations where possible exposures may have occurred, as stated in the news release.
During the infectious period of the first diagnosed individual, they visited several public venues, raising concerns about possible measles exposure. Notable locations include the Timpanogos Regional Emergency Room on June 14, where the individual was present between 2:14 p.m. and 7:02 p.m., and the Parkway Health Center in Orem on June 13. Although a specific time for the latter visit was not provided, the potential for exposure remains significant.
Dr. Leisha Nolen, Utah's state epidemiologist, confirmed that the first individual sought medical attention due to symptoms associated with measles and was advised to quarantine at home, a directive they reportedly followed after receiving their diagnosis. Health officials have urged anyone who may have been at these sites during the same timeframe or within two hours afterward to monitor for symptoms of measles.
Dr. Nolen expressed concern about the possibility of additional measles cases in Utah, emphasizing that the affected individual had not traveled outside the state, indicating the disease's origin within Utah itself. Early symptoms of measles, including high fever, cough, runny nose, and red eyes, typically manifest seven to 14 days after exposure, with a rash generally appearing four days after the onset of fever.
The health department advises anyone who has been exposed to measles or is experiencing symptoms to contact their healthcare provider before visiting a clinic. This precaution is essential to prevent the further spread of the disease. Fortunately, a large majority of Utahns—over 90%—have been vaccinated against measles, providing them with a high level of protection against infection.
Measles is known to be a highly contagious disease and can lead to serious health complications, particularly for young children, pregnant women, and individuals with weakened immune systems. As the situation evolves, state health officials continue to monitor and respond to this outbreak to ensure public safety and health.
