Health officials in southwestern Utah have confirmed a second potential case of measles.
On Monday, Utah health officials reported that they were alerted to a potential case.
An “unvaccinated, out-of-state resident” infected with measles reportedly visited family on May 26 and 27.
“This person was out in the community and may have exposed others,” health officials said.
The extent of contact with the individual remains uncertain.
“Our team has limited details about who was exposed, however we are working to provide information and protection to those we can identify,” officials said.
Details regarding the specific locations visited by the infected individual remain undisclosed. The Southwest Utah Public Health Department serves the counties of Beaver, Garfield, Iron, Kane, and Washington.
Authorities have advised that individuals exhibiting symptoms of measles should refrain from public outings.
“We encourage anyone who has measles-like symptoms to stay at home and away from others for at least 4 days after the rash appears to limit the risk to others in their community,” they said. “People who have symptoms should call medical facilities and clinics before they go in to make sure the clinic can protect other patients from potentially being exposed to the measles virus.”
Health officials have indicated that symptoms may manifest anywhere from 10 to 14 days following exposure.
“Common symptoms include high fever, cough, runny nose, sore throat, red or watery eyes and tiny white spots that appear inside the mouth on the inner lining of the cheek (Koplik’s spots). A rash with small red spots generally begins 3-5 days after other signs of the illness starts,” they said.
Utah sees its first potential measles case reported on Tuesday.
A traveller arrived at Salt Lake City International Airport, rented a car, and drove to Idaho before experiencing symptoms, according to officials.
Officials noted that the situation posed “a very limited risk to our community,” yet advised Utah residents to verify their vaccination status prior to summer travel due to the rising case numbers nationwide.
