Active Public Health Outbreaks in Utah
As of late November 2025, Utah is managing several significant public health challenges. The most urgent concern is a rapidly expanding measles outbreak, the largest the state has seen in decades. Concurrently, public health officials are monitoring a sharp rise in pertussis (whooping cough) cases and the seasonal onset of respiratory viruses. While environmental monitoring for E. coli continues in recreational waters, there are no active widespread foodborne outbreaks reported at this time.
?? Measles Outbreak: High Alert
Regional Distribution
Measles Situation Report
The outbreak has escalated significantly in late 2025, driven largely by low vaccination rates. Utah currently holds the second-highest rate of vaccine exemptions in the United States.
- Recent Cluster: 8 confirmed cases at Wasatch High School in Heber City.
- Exposure Dates: Mid-November 2025 (specifically Nov 14-18).
- Demographics: The majority of cases are among unvaccinated school-aged children.
Pertussis (Whooping Cough) Surge
Alongside measles, Utah is experiencing a resurgence of Pertussis. Cases have "exploded" since 2023, with 2025 data showing a 53% increase in infections compared to previous baselines. This highly contagious respiratory tract infection is particularly dangerous for infants. Public health officials attribute this rise to the same "vaccine fatigue" and hesitancy driving the measles outbreak.
Respiratory Virus Surveillance (Nov 2025)
Wastewater levels generally low; isolated elevated sites in South Davis.
Activity is low but showing seasonal increase.
Early seasonal increase detected.
Avian Influenza (H5N1)
While H5N1 has been detected in Utah's poultry and dairy farms, there are currently zero reported human cases in the state. This contrasts with the national situation, where over 70 human cases have been confirmed across other states.
Environmental Monitoring (E. coli)
There are no active large-scale foodborne E. coli outbreaks in Utah as of November 2025. However, the Department of Environmental Quality continues to issue advisories for recreational water bodies (e.g., Jordan River, Calf Creek) where bacterial levels may exceed safety thresholds.