Utah measles outbreak expands as Arizona case prompts Kane County exposure alert

Utah health officials continue to describe the state’s measles situ­ation as an outbreak, and new information released this week adds a direct cross-border exposure involving Kane County Hospital.

Since the Southern Utah News last re­ported on measles ac­tivity in late December, health authorities say additional cases have been confirmed in Utah and neighboring Ari­zona, reinforcing con­cerns about sustained regional spread.

Coconino County Health and Human Services announced Dec. 30 that a county resident tested positive for measles and had visited Kane County Hospital while infec­tious. According to the release, the individual was in the Kane County Hospital Emergency Department, 355 N. Main St. in Kanab, on Monday, December 22, between 5 and 9 p.m. Public health officials say people who were in that area during that time may have been exposed.

Those potentially exposed are advised to monitor for symptoms through Jan. 12 and to contact a health­care provider by phone if symptoms develop. Health officials stress that people should call ahead before seeking in-person care to avoid exposing others.

The Arizona case marks the first con­firmed measles case in Coconino County in 2025 and underscores the interconnected na­ture of the ongoing outbreak across the Utah–Arizona border. Utah health depart­ments have reported continued case growth in recent weeks, shift­ing the situation from what was previously described as a cluster to an active outbreak involving multiple coun­ties.

The Utah Depart­ment of Health and Human Services says measles is one of the most contagious vi­ruses known and can remain airborne for up to two hours after an infected person leaves a space. People who are not immune face a high risk of infection following exposure.

While often perceived as a childhood illness, measles can lead to se­rious complications, including pneumonia and neurologic conditions such as encephalitis. Hospitalizations have been reported during the current outbreak, though no deaths have been confirmed by Utah or Coconino County officials.

Health officials con­tinue to emphasize vac­cination as the most ef­fective protection. Two doses of the measles, mumps and rubella vaccine are about 97 percent effective, ac­cording to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Unvacci­nated individuals are considered at highest risk.

Officials say case counts may continue to change as contact tracing and testing continue and additional updates are expected.