CCH Urges Locals to Stay Sharp as Measles Cases Climb Across Wyoming

Campbell County Health is sounding the alarm: measles is making an unwelcome comeback in Wyoming, and they want locals to take it seriously.

Since June, seven cases have been confirmed statewide — mostly in Natrona, Niobrara, and Carbon counties — with four of those hitting in a single weekend. The kicker? Six out of seven of the patients were unvaccinated, and the seventh was immunocompromised.

“This virus spreads like wildfire,” CCH said in a statement this week. “Vaccination and awareness are key to stopping it in its tracks.”

Measles isn’t just your average sniffle. It’s one of the most contagious diseases out there, and anyone unvaccinated or with a weakened immune system is at higher risk of catching it — even from short exposure.

The virus can hang in the air for up to two hours after an infected person leaves the room, making it dangerously easy to spread in schools, stores, and even waiting rooms.

People undergoing cancer treatment, taking immunosuppressive medications, or living with certain medical conditions are especially vulnerable.

CCH wants residents to know what symptoms to look out for so they can act fast if measles comes knocking.

“Early signs look a lot like a cold — fever, cough, runny nose, red watery eyes,” the hospital said.

But there’s one telltale giveaway: tiny white spots inside the mouth, followed by a rash that typically starts on the face and behind the ears before spreading everywhere else.

The rash usually shows up 3–5 days after symptoms begin.

If you think you’ve been exposed — or are showing signs of measles — don’t wait it out.

• Isolate immediately
• Call your doctor or the Wyoming Department of Health
• Especially if you’re unvaccinated or high-risk, act quickly

“Even a brief encounter in a shared space can lead to infection,” CCH warned.

The MMR vaccine (that’s Measles, Mumps, and Rubella) remains the most effective protection, with two doses providing lifelong immunity for most people.

In Campbell County, MMR shots are available at:

• CCH’s main clinic
• Campbell County Public Health

This isn’t about panic — it’s about preparation. With measles clearly circulating and more cases likely, CCH’s message is simple: Get vaccinated, know the symptoms, and act fast if you think you’re exposed.

For more info, you can check out the Wyoming Department of Health’s measles page on their website.