Measles Alert: Symptoms, Risks, and How to Stay Safe

On Monday August 25, 2025, the South­west Utah Public Health Department (SWUPHD) issued a press release regarding measles in our area. SWUPHD has confirmed two additional cases of measles in the five-county district. With several more suspected measles cases presenting to ERs and clinics in St. George, Hurricane, and Kanab, the SW­UPHD is anticipating many more cases to emerge in the next couple weeks.

Measles is a highly contagious virus that can remain airborne for up to two hours after an infected person has left a room. 9 out of 10 people exposed to measles will likely become infected if they are not immune either from vaccination or a previous infection. You can get measles just by being in a room where a person with measles has been. Two doses of MMR (measles, mumps and rubella) vaccine is the best way to prevent measles infection and illness.

While most people recover at home, some people - especially children and the elderly - can experience breathing problems, pneumonia, brain swelling, seizures, hospitalization, and even death.

Individuals who are most at risk include:

• Unvaccinated individuals

• Pregnant women

• Infants younger than 6 months of age

• Individuals who have traveled internationally

• Those who have weakened immune systems

Symptoms start 7-14 days after exposure! Symptoms to watch for:

1. Diarrhea

2. Nausea/vomiting

3. Weakness

4. Runny nose

5. High Fever

Rash only appears 3-5 days AFTER symptoms start. It’s a long time before a rash starts after the initial exposure. Contact your health-care provider by phone before going to a medical facility. Residents should make sure that they and their children are caught up on vaccinations as soon as possible.

For vaccinations, contact your healthcare provider or make an appointment at your nearest SWUPHD clinic by visiting swuhealth.gov/immunizations.

For information about measles in Utah, including cases and exposure locations, visit epi.utah.gov/measles-response.