Fourth Measles Case in a Week Raises Utah Total to 57

URGENT UPDATE: A new case of measles has just been confirmed in Southwest Utah, bringing the startling statewide total to 57 cases this year. This latest report marks the fourth new measles case identified in the region within just one week.

This case was recorded in the Southwest Utah Health District, where a staggering 43 of the 57 cases have occurred in 2025. The urgency around these developments cannot be overstated, as 55 of the total cases involve unvaccinated individuals, raising serious health concerns across the state.

The Utah Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) has identified several potential exposure sites linked to this outbreak. Individuals who visited the following locations are urged to monitor for symptoms for at least three weeks after the listed dates:

– St. George Regional Hospital (1380 E Medical Center Drive, St. George, UT) on October 9, 2025, between 10:45 a.m. and 5:30 p.m.
– River Road Instacare (577 S River Road, St. George, UT) on October 9, 2025, between 10 a.m. and 12 p.m.
– Hurricane Emergency Department (127 N 2260 W, Hurricane, UT) on October 10 or 11, 2025
– Water Canyon High School (880 N Carling St. #520, Hildale, UT) on September 25, 2025
– Innova Tech (4360 S Wecco Road, Cedar City, UT) on September 26, 2025

The highly contagious nature of measles, which can spread through the air via coughing and sneezing, heightens the importance of these alerts. Common symptoms may not appear until about a week after infection, including high fever, cough, and a distinctive rash. Serious complications, such as pneumonia and encephalitis, can occur, particularly among those without vaccination.

DHHS officials stress the importance of vaccination, noting that approximately 90% of Utahns are immunized against measles. Leisha Nolan, Utah State Epidemiologist, emphasizes that vaccination is the most effective defense against the outbreak.

The recent surge in measles cases is alarming, particularly as this year has already recorded a total of 1,544 confirmed measles cases across the United States, according to the CDC. This includes both domestic cases and those arising from international visitors.

As the outbreak continues, anyone exhibiting symptoms or feeling unwell is advised to stay home and contact health care providers ahead of visits to minimize the risk of spreading the virus.

The situation remains fluid as health officials continue to monitor cases and recommend vaccination to curb further transmission. For those who have frequented the identified locations, vigilance is crucial in the coming weeks. Stay tuned for ongoing updates as authorities work to contain this urgent public health issue.