Utah health officials warn residents about potential measles outbreak

The big picture: As of last week, nearly 100 measles cases have been reported across 17 states, including California and Arizona, per the Utah Department of Health and Human Services.

• Last year, 58 cases were reported nationwide.
• More than half the cases this year were reported in Chicago.

Zoom in: Measles is a highly contagious respiratory disease that can be deadly to babies, young children and people with a weakened immune system, per the CDC.

• Initial symptoms include a high fever that can reach over 104 degrees, coughing, a runny nose and red, watery eyes.
• About 1 in 5 unvaccinated people in the U.S. who contract the virus get hospitalized, according to the CDC.

The bottom line: The MMR vaccine, which protects against measles, mumps and rubella, is 97% effective when two doses of the shot are administered, according to DHHS.

• Utahns can check their immunization records online.