Two additional cases of measles have been confirmed in Utah, raising the state’s total to five, according to state health officials. Among the five infected individuals are two pregnant women, sparking concerns about possible complications for both mothers and babies.
Dr. Leisha Nolen, Utah’s state epidemiologist, said Thursday that two of the five patients required overnight hospital care due to worsening symptoms, though all are currently recovering. “That is very concerning to us,” Nolen said. “We certainly want to have as minimal infections as we can here in Utah — and as mild.”
The two new cases include one adult and one minor. One lives in Utah County, while the other is from Utah’s southwest health district. All five people diagnosed with measles had not been vaccinated, Nolen confirmed.
Health Officials Expect More Cases
Dr. Nolen said these new cases were anticipated, as both individuals had known exposures to the virus. With more unvaccinated people possibly exposed, additional cases are likely in the coming weeks.
“This is not the COVID pandemic — most of us are protected, which is very different,” Nolen noted. “But measles is extremely contagious and can be serious, especially for certain groups.”
Pregnancy and Measles: A Dangerous Combination
Two of the infected people are pregnant, prompting officials to warn about the risks measles poses to expectant mothers. Nolen urged women planning to become pregnant to make sure they are vaccinated beforehand, since the measles-mumps-rubella (MMR) vaccine is not given during pregnancy.
“Pregnant people who get measles are more likely to end up in the hospital, more likely to give birth too early, or even lose the baby,” she said.
Public Exposure and Vaccine Reminders
On Tuesday, health officials shared that one of the earlier patients had visited several public places while contagious — including Timpanogos Regional Emergency Room on June 14 and Parkway Health Center in Orem on June 13. No new public exposure locations have been identified since then.
Still, Nolen reassured Utahns that the majority are protected, thanks to the state’s 90% vaccination rate. Those who have been vaccinated and do get infected are likely to have only mild symptoms and are far less likely to pass the disease to others.
Children under age 1 — who are too young to be vaccinated — are most vulnerable. Their best protection comes from making sure people around them are immunized, Nolen emphasized.
Two doses of the MMR vaccine, typically given at ages 1 and 4, provide lifelong protection, she added.
Symptoms and What To Do If You’re Exposed
Measles symptoms often begin seven to 14 days after exposure. Early signs include high fever, cough, runny nose, and red eyes. A rash, usually starting at the hairline, typically appears a few days after the fever begins.
Health officials are urging anyone with symptoms or known exposure to call a healthcare provider before visiting a clinic, in order to reduce the risk of spreading the virus.
“Measles is highly contagious and can cause serious illness, especially in young children, pregnant women, and people with weakened immune systems,” the Utah Department of Health and Human Services said in a statement.
Areas of Concern
One specific area of worry is the southwest region of Utah, where some schools have lower vaccination rates. In those areas, a single case could lead to faster spread, especially among school-aged children.
Nolen closed with a reminder to all Utahns: “If you’re feeling sick, stay home — whether it’s measles or anything else. That simple step helps protect everyone around you.”
