Measles is 'worse than expected' in Utah, officials say
NBC News • • general
Key Points:
- Southern Utah is experiencing a growing measles outbreak that began last June, with 358 cases reported as of Friday, primarily affecting a close-knit community linked to the Fundamentalist Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.
- The outbreak has spread north to Salt Lake City and nearby areas, notably after large school athletic events, with five cases linked to a state wrestling tournament in February; over 120 people have sought emergency care, 31 hospitalized, and three admitted to intensive care.
- Measles cases nationwide have surged in 2026, with 1,281 cases reported by the CDC since January 1, mostly among unvaccinated children and teenagers; 93% of cases involve unvaccinated individuals.
- South Carolina's
