health concerns, with cases exceeding 150 and vaccination rates declining.">
A concerning surge in Measles cases is impacting communities along the Utah-Arizona border, prompting urgent health advisories and highlighting the crucial role of vaccination. The outbreak, currently affecting 158 individuals, is prompting officials to bolster preventative measures and address declining immunization rates.
Current Outbreak Details
Health departments in both states report a continued rise in infections. Utah’s Southwest Utah Health Department has documented two additional cases, bringing the state’s yearly total to 51. Most cases are concentrated in Hildale, Washington County, although new infections have emerged in St. George, also in Washington County, and Cedar City, Iron County. To date, Utah has recorded 67 Measles cases this year, with nine individuals requiring hospitalization.
arizona is experiencing a larger concentration of cases,with 111 confirmed infections as of today. A vast majority – 107 cases – are located in Mojave County, adjacent to Washington County, Utah. An additional four cases have been identified in nearby Navajo County. The number of cases in Arizona has increased by 14 as the last assessment, with the first cases appearing in June.
National Trends and Vaccination Rates
The Utah-Arizona outbreak is the second-largest currently active in the United States, trailing onyl an outbreak in West Texas, which has impacted at least 762 people and resulted in three fatalities. Nationally, The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reports a sharp increase in Measles infections, totaling 1,681 confirmed cases as of today. This figure represents the highest annual count as the disease was declared eliminated in the US in 2000; in 2024, only 285 cases were reported.
Of the cases reported nationwide in 2025, approximately 92 percent involve individuals who are unvaccinated or whose vaccination status is unknown. Furthermore, 12 percent of those infected have required hospitalization, with over 20 percent of hospitalizations occurring in children under the age of five.
Vaccination remains the most effective way to prevent the spread of Measles. Two doses of the Measles, Mumps, and Rubella (MMR) vaccine are 97 percent effective. Though, recent data reveals a concerning decline in MMR vaccination rates among US kindergartners. Uptake fell to 92.5% in the 2024-25 school year, down from 95.2% in 2019-20. Maintaining Measles elimination requires a minimum of 95% vaccination coverage.
| State | Total Cases (2025) | Hospitalizations | % Unvaccinated/Unknown Status |
|---|---|---|---|
| Utah | 67 | 9 | 98.5% |
| Arizona | 111 | data Pending | Estimated 90% |
| United States (Total) | 1,681 | Data Pending | 92% |
Did You Know? Measles is highly contagious, with a reproduction number (R0) between 12 and 18. This means that, on average, one infected person can spread the disease to 12 to 18 others.
Pro Tip: Check your family’s vaccination records and ensure that everyone is up-to-date on their MMR vaccinations. Consult with your healthcare provider if you have any questions or concerns.
Infant Vaccination Recommendations
In response to the outbreak in Washington County, Utah, state health officials are now recommending that infants aged 6 to 12 months who reside in or are traveling to the county receive a dose of the MMR vaccine. Typically, the first MMR vaccine is administered between 12 and 15 months of age.
Understanding Measles and Prevention
Measles is a highly contagious infectious disease that can lead to serious complications, including pneumonia, encephalitis (brain swelling), and even death. It is characterized by a distinctive rash, fever, cough, runny nose, and red, watery eyes. The Measles virus spreads through the air when an infected person coughs or sneezes.
Beyond vaccination, preventing the spread of Measles involves practicing good hygiene, such as frequent handwashing, covering coughs and sneezes, and avoiding close contact with individuals who are sick. Prompt diagnosis and isolation of infected individuals are also critical to controlling outbreaks.
Frequently Asked Questions About Measles
- What is Measles? Measles is a highly contagious viral infection that can cause severe health problems, especially in young children.
- How effective is the MMR vaccine against Measles? Two doses of the MMR vaccine are 97% effective in preventing Measles.
- Why are Measles cases increasing? Declining vaccination rates are a primary driver of the recent increase in Measles cases.
- What are the symptoms of Measles? common symptoms include fever, cough, runny nose, red eyes, and a characteristic rash.
- Is Measles contagious? Yes, Measles is extremely contagious, spreading easily through the air when an infected person coughs or sneezes.
- Can adults get Measles? Yes, adults who were not vaccinated as children or who have never had measles are susceptible to infection.
- What should I do if I suspect I or my child has Measles? Contact your healthcare provider immediately for diagnosis and treatment.
What steps can communities take to improve vaccination rates and protect public health? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
