Two adults in Utah have been diagnosed with measles, bringing the total cases to three. The cases are unconnected and involve individuals from Utah County and southwest Utah who have not received vaccinations. Health officials urge vigilance among unvaccinated individuals as the disease spreads easily.
The latest cases were announced by the Utah Department of Health and Human Services, which reported that all three individuals are unvaccinated. The first case was diagnosed last week, marking the first time measles has originated in Utah in at least two years.
According to health officials, one of the new cases visited several public places during its infectious period, including the Timpanogos Regional Emergency Room and Parkway Health Center. It is advised that people who visited these sites at the same time or within two hours may have been exposed to measles.
Dr. Leisha Nolen, Utah’s state epidemiologist, warned that there could be additional measles cases in the state. She noted that the affected individual had not traveled outside of Utah, suggesting that the disease originated locally.
Health officials emphasized that anyone who has been exposed to measles or is showing symptoms should call a healthcare provider first before visiting a clinic. The department also urged unvaccinated individuals to take precautions and watch for symptoms such as high fever, cough, runny nose, or red eyes.
It’s worth noting that over 90% of Utahns are vaccinated against measles, providing protection against infection. However, measles remains a highly contagious disease that can cause serious illness in vulnerable populations, including young children, pregnant women, and people with weakened immune systems.
Source: https://www.ksl.com/article/51334912/2-more-adults-in-utah-diagnosed-with-measles-health-department-says-