Measles case confirmed in Cache County

LOGAN — Officials at the Bear River Health Department on Tuesday announced a confirmed case of measles in Cache County.

While other areas throughout the state have seen outbreaks come and go this year, this is the first case within the Bear River's jurisdiction in many years. Individuals who have been in contact with the confirmed case have been notified, yet officials are encouraging everyone to protect themselves with the necessary vaccinations.

"The MMR vaccine is one of the most highly effective vaccines given and we strongly encourage individuals to stay up to date with their immunizations," said Lloyd Berentzen, executive director for the Bear River Health Department. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention report that the MMR vaccine is 99.7 percent effective.

Symptoms of measles include runny nose and fever, followed by an all-over rash on the body. Measles is highly contagious and is typically passed when an infected person coughs or sneezes.

In April, nine individuals in Salt Lake County were confirmed to have measles. After an infectious period of 28 days passed, officials there declared the outbreak over.

— Wendy Leonard

Twitter: wendyleonards