Utah Sees Surge in Measles Cases, Prompting Vaccination Checks

University of Utah daycare exposure highlights need for parents to review immunization records.

Apr. 10, 2026 at 11:05pm

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A ghostly, translucent X-ray image revealing the intricate internal structure of a measles virus particle, conceptually illustrating the importance of vaccination in combating the spread of this highly contagious disease.An X-ray view of the measles virus highlights the need for vigilance in maintaining community immunity.Salt Lake City Today

Salt Lake City is grappling with a measles outbreak, with over 500 cases reported statewide and a recent exposure at a University of Utah daycare. Health officials are urging parents to ensure their children are fully vaccinated, as the majority of cases involve unvaccinated individuals. Some adults may also need to get a second dose of the MMR vaccine, as they may not be fully protected.

Why it matters

The measles outbreak in Utah underscores the importance of maintaining high vaccination rates to prevent the spread of highly contagious diseases. As community transmission becomes more widespread, it's crucial for both children and adults to be up-to-date on their vaccinations to protect themselves and their communities.

The details

The measles outbreak in Utah has seen a rapid rise, with over 100 new cases in the last three weeks alone. Health officials have reported that 89% of the 62 cases in Salt Lake County involve unvaccinated individuals. The recent exposure at a University of Utah daycare has prompted parents to check their children's vaccination status, with some opting to get their kids' second dose of the MMR vaccine early. Experts also warn that some adults may not realize they are missing a dose and should review their records.

  • The measles outbreak in Utah has seen over 500 cases reported since the start of the year.
  • In the last three weeks, there have been over 100 new measles cases in the state.
  • The recent exposure at a University of Utah daycare occurred in the last few weeks.

The players

Charlie Smith

A parent who received a notification about the measles exposure at the University of Utah daycare and felt comfortable sending her son, who is vaccinated, to the facility.

Melanie Crossland

An epidemiologist with the Salt Lake County Health Department, who reported that 89% of the 62 measles cases in the county involve unvaccinated individuals.

Dr. Dallin Hybbard

The founder of Direct Care Pediatrics, who has seen an increase in parents seeking early second doses of the MMR vaccine for their children.

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What they’re saying

“We've had 62 cases in Salt Lake County since the start of the outbreak, and 89 percent of them are unvaccinated.”

— Melanie Crossland, Epidemiologist, Salt Lake County Health Department

“We're seeing a lot more people coming in who want vaccines — even asking about getting an extra dose early.”

— Dr. Dallin Hybbard, Founder, Direct Care Pediatrics

“We got our son's second dose early, at age three, because we were traveling. Our doctor was 100 percent OK with it and recommended it.”

— Parent

What’s next

Health experts warn that if you're not sure whether you or your child has had both doses of the measles vaccine, now is the time to check. They recommend that adults also review their vaccination records and consider getting a second dose of the MMR vaccine if they only have one on record.

The takeaway

The measles outbreak in Utah serves as a stark reminder of the importance of maintaining high vaccination rates in the community. As the virus continues to spread, it's crucial for both children and adults to ensure they are fully protected against this highly contagious disease.