The first cases of measles were reported in Davis County in late November, as we reported. Those three cases were the only cases that have been reported in Davis so far, but across the state the number of cases reported stands at 300.
While state and other media have been quick to report on the events surrounding other cases, The Bountiful Forum believes that much of the coverage has failed to clearly and accurately explain the measles outbreak, instead emphasizing sensational details while offering limited context about what it means for Utah residents—particularly those who are vaccinated.
Here in this article we have answered some commonly asked questions about measles to give you a better picture of what this outbreak means for your health and safety.
How many measles cases have there been in Utah?
Since tracking of this outbreak began in June 2025, which you can see here at the Department of Health and Human Services Measles Dashboard, there have been 300 reported cases across several counties in Utah. This means 0.009% of the state has contracted measles.
The highest numbers reported have been in:
- A combined area of Southwest Utah (Beaver, Garfield, Iron, Kane, and Washington counties) at 194 cases
- Utah County at 41 cases
- Salt Lake County at 32.
No other health jurisdiction has reported more than 10 cases.
Can I get measles if I am vaccinated?
According to the Center for Disease Control and Prevention, measles is a highly contagious disease that can easily spread from person to person if they are not vaccinated. Their measles info page states: “If one person has it, up to 9 out of 10 people nearby will become infected if they are not protected.”
That “if they are not protected part” is the important part.
How effective is the measles vaccine?
For vaccinated individuals, “Two doses of MMR vaccine are about 97% effective at preventing measles; one dose is about 93% effective,” per the CDC. The Mayo clinic corroborates those numbers.
What happens if I get measles anyway?
For the small percentage of people who contract measles even after they are vaccinated (3%), measles is usually less severe. While it is always wise to consult a doctor if you think you have measles, The CDC says that these individuals can expect to have milder symptoms compared to those who are unvaccinated.
How can I check if I have got the measles vaccine?
If you are not sure if you have been vaccinated or not, you can go to https://immunize.utah.gov/usiis-parents-individuals/ to request your immunization records. On the site, there are multiple ways to obtain your records.
Should I get another vaccine if I have already been vaccinated?
This is what the National Foundation for Infections Diseases has to say about getting a booster or another vaccination:
“Most vaccinated adults are immune to measles and do not need further vaccines. Those born before 1957 likely had measles disease and developed life-long immunity and do not need MMR vaccines. Those vaccinated between 1963-1968 may have received a measles vaccine that was found to have lower effectiveness. Those who had 2 doses of measles vaccine are not considered to be at risk.
“The best defense against measles is vaccination, and if you are not sure of your immunity or vaccination status, it is safe to get a measles vaccine.”
What do I do if I think I have measles?
If you think you might have measles and are wondering more about what you should do about it, you can read more information we put together about that here.
