What is measles?
Measles is a highly contagious virus that spreads easily through the air through coughing and sneezing. The CDC said those infected won’t see symptoms appear until about a week after infection, and common symptoms include high fever, cough, and a rash.
Tiny white spots may appear inside the mouth two to three days after symptoms begin.
Measles can cause serious health complications, especially for those who are not protected through the measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR) vaccine. Those complications can include pneumonia, encephalitis or brain swelling, seizures, and death.
The measles rash appears 3 to 5 days after the first symptoms. It usually begins as flat red spots that appear on the face at the hairline. They then spread downward to the neck, trunk, arms, legs, and feet.
Getting vaccinated
According to DHHS, 90% of Utahns are vaccinated against measles and are urging those who are not vaccinated to get the MMR vaccine. Utah State Epidemiologist Leisha Nolan says that the most effective prevention against the measles is vaccination.
As of September 30, 2025, a total of 1,544 confirmed measles cases were reported by 42 jurisdictions in the United States and among international visitors to the U.S., according to the latest information from the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).
According to a study conducted by the DHHS, immunization rates with specific vaccines have decreased amongst kindergarteners throughout Utah since 2014. Amelia Salmanson, a measles epidemiologist with the DHHS, told ABC4.com that anyone who is exhibiting measles symptoms or is sick should do their best to “stay home and away from others”. They can also call ahead when seeking care so clinics can prevent spread in their waiting rooms.