Highly Spreadable, Often Fatal Virus Cases Surround Idaho Borders

Cases of one of the most fatal viruses for young, unvaccinated children are rising throughout the northwest and have been reported in five of the six states that surround Idaho.

With many Idaho children and teens preparing to head back to the classroom following summer break in the next month, cases of measles have spiked in the western United States and have resulted in health officials waving the caution flag.

Idaho is one of the leading states experiencing a decline in measles vaccination rates among children, according to new data shared by Boise Public Radio.

Measles Cases Now Reported in Five of Six States Surrounding Idaho

The measles virus produces red skin legions and usually begins with a fever (104 to 105 degrees), dry cough, watery eyes, and blotching of the face and behind the ears, according to The Mayo Clinic. Once diagnosed, rest, fluids, and quarantine are recommended, as it is a viral infection that must run its course.

READ MORE: Idaho Health Officials Warn of 2025 Measles Outbreak

More than 140,000 people worldwide died from measles in 2018, according to Unicef. Children under the age of 10 made up most of the fatalities, and now cases of the virus have been confirmed in Oregon, Washington, Utah, Wyoming, and Montana, according to information shared by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). Less than a dozen states have not reported cases of measles to date, according to the CDC.

If you or your children begin to show symptoms of the measles, contact your local healthcare provider immediately and quarantine.