Measles outbreak in Utah, Arizona grows to over 130 cases

Summary

An outbreak of measles affecting parts of southwest Utah and northwest Arizona has grown to more than 130 confirmed cases. Southwest Utah Public Health reported 43 cases across Beaver, Garfield, Iron, Kane and Washington counties (including St George). The Arizona Department of Health Services lists an active outbreak of 93 cases in Mohave County, with another four cases in Navajo County.

There have been hospitalisations in both states: Arizona reported three hospitalisations in Mohave County, and Utah reported five hospitalised since August (all since discharged). Officials say only one of the confirmed Utah cases had been immunised. Most cases have been school-aged children, with some adults and infants also affected. Public health authorities are urging families to get the measles vaccine, which they describe as safe and effective.

Key Points

The combined outbreak now exceeds 130 confirmed measles cases across parts of Utah and Arizona.
Southwest Utah Public Health confirmed 43 cases across five counties, including Washington County (St George).
Arizona reports an active cluster of 93 cases in Mohave County and four additional cases in Navajo County.
At least three people were hospitalised in Arizona; five were hospitalised in Utah but have been discharged.
Only one confirmed case in Utah was immunised; most cases are school-aged children, plus some adults and infants.
Health officials continue to recommend vaccination (MMR) to prevent further spread.

Why should I read this?

Short version: this is close to Las Vegas and growing. If you’ve got kids, babies, or travel plans in the area — pay attention. Measles is nasty, highly contagious and largely preventable with the MMR jab. Getting immunised now cuts the risk of long hospital stays and keeps schools open. Seriously, it’s worth a five-minute check of your vaccine records.

Context and relevance

This outbreak highlights how measles can resurface when pockets of the population are unvaccinated. It’s a reminder that high vaccination coverage is crucial to stop spread, especially near transport hubs and tourist regions. For local readers and health professionals, the case counts and hospitalisations signal increased pressure on public-health response and the importance of timely immunisation campaigns and awareness.