As measles cases continue to rise in Utah, health experts are urging families to take immediate preventive steps—most importantly, vaccination. The Utah Department of Health and Human Services has confirmed 87 cases statewide, with the majority concentrated in Washington County. Eighteen new infections were recorded in just the past three weeks, raising concerns about the virus regaining a foothold in the state.
Measles Threatens U.S. Elimination Status
The United States achieved measles elimination status in 2000, meaning the virus was not spreading continuously for more than a year. That milestone is now under pressure as cases climb. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, even small outbreaks can challenge that national status when vaccination coverage drops.
Doctors Re-Emphasize the Importance of Vaccination
Health officials recommend the MMR vaccine—a combined shot for measles, mumps, and rubella—starting at 12 months, with a second dose administered around kindergarten age. Dr. Lu Lu Waterhouse, Department Chair of Pediatrics at St. Mark’s Hospital, acknowledges parental concerns but stresses that the vaccine is backed by decades of safety data.
“This is a well-established vaccine with dozens of studies confirming its safety and efficacy,” she said. “The amount of antigens in the shot is tiny compared to what children naturally encounter every day.”
Protection in Infants and the Role of Immunity
Breastfeeding infants receive some passive protection if their mothers are vaccinated, but Dr. Waterhouse warns that those antibodies wane after about six months. Without vaccination, infants quickly become vulnerable.
In the 1970s and 80s, measles surged across the country, but widespread immunization created powerful herd immunity—a protective barrier requiring 95% vaccination coverage. Today’s rate among Utah kindergarteners sits at 92%, high but still below the threshold needed to stop community spread.
Highly Contagious and Rapidly Spreading
Measles is one of the most contagious viruses in the world. Symptoms include fever, sore throat, runny nose, and a rash beginning at the hairline that spreads downward. Dr. Waterhouse urges sick individuals to avoid walking into hospitals or clinics without calling ahead, allowing staff to prepare protective measures—or in some cases, treat patients from their vehicles.
“I became a pediatrician to keep children healthy and safe,” she said. “Vaccines are the only reliable way to prevent measles.”
For statewide updates, families can refer to the Utah Department of Health and Human Services.
