Public health officials report 1088 US measles cases amid Utah's low risk status

During the recent Summit County Board of Health meeting held on June 2, 2025, public health officials provided an update on the ongoing measles outbreak affecting various jurisdictions across the United States. As of last Thursday, there were 1,088 confirmed cases reported in 33 jurisdictions, with no confirmed cases in Utah at this time. Officials noted that a few individuals were being tested but were classified as low probability cases.

The meeting highlighted that 12 percent of the confirmed cases had resulted in hospitalization, with a concerning statistic that 96 percent of these cases involved individuals who were unvaccinated or had an unknown vaccination status. Among the hospitalized cases, 22 percent were children under five years old. Despite the alarming numbers, vaccination rates in Summit County have remained stable, with ongoing efforts to provide regular vaccinations to residents.

A significant discussion point was a recent scare involving a traveler from Canada who was later confirmed to have measles. This individual had passed through Salt Lake City Airport and subsequently traveled to Southern Idaho without making any stops. Although there was initial concern about potential exposure to Summit County residents, health officials determined that no local individuals were at risk. The state opted not to issue a health advisory, citing the low risk of transmission and the measures taken to manage the situation.

The meeting also addressed the contagious nature of measles, with officials noting that individuals can spread the virus even before showing symptoms. The discussion included the importance of vaccination and the need for public awareness, especially given the recent outbreaks in other states, including a reported six cases linked to a single individual in Denver.

In conclusion, the Summit County Board of Health emphasized the importance of vaccinations and ongoing monitoring of the measles situation. They encouraged residents, particularly those uninsured, to seek out the MMR vaccine, reinforcing their commitment to public health and safety in the community. The board remains vigilant and prepared to respond to any developments related to the outbreak.