TETON COUNTY, Wyo. — The Wyoming Department of Health on Wednesday confirmed two additional measles infections in Teton County, raising the state total to six cases. Health officials said five of the six cases have been connected to Teton County.
Who was infected and how exposure occurred
According to the state health release, one of the newly reported cases involves an adult with no known connection to the cluster of prior Teton County cases. The other new case is an adult who had direct exposure to a previously identified infection. The announcement reiterated the high transmissibility of measles and the risks it poses.
“This underscores the highly contagious nature of the measles virus,” the release stated.
Public exposure windows identified by the Department of Health include two retail locations in Jackson. Officials urge anyone who was present at those places during the listed times to review guidance on potential exposure and to check their vaccination status.
Locations and times of possible exposure
- Target Jackson Hole, 510 Wyoming Highway 89 South, Jackson — 7 a.m.–7 p.m., July 5–7
- Smith’s Food and Drug, 1425 Wyoming Highway 89 South, Jackson — 9 a.m.–noon, July 8
Measles can cause severe complications, including pneumonia, encephalitis and death. The Department of Health emphasized that vaccination remains the most effective protection against infection.
| Metric | Details |
|---|---|
| Statewide confirmed cases | 6 |
| Cases linked to Teton County | 5 |
| Exposure locations (Jackson) | Target; Smith’s Food and Drug |
What residents should do
Health officials advise anyone who visited the listed locations during the specified times to:
- Check their vaccination records for evidence of measles immunity (two doses of MMR vaccine for most adults and children).
- Watch for symptoms such as high fever, cough, runny nose, red eyes and a characteristic rash.
- Contact a health care provider before visiting in person if symptoms develop to avoid further spread.
For comprehensive information on case counts, exposure sites and instructions on what to do after potential exposure, the Department of Health directs the public to its website. Local public-health partners will continue to monitor the situation and provide updates as more information becomes available.
This cluster highlights the persistent threat measles poses in communities with pockets of unvaccinated or susceptible people and underscores the importance of maintaining high vaccination coverage to prevent outbreaks.
