UTAH COUNTY - The health department has confirmed six new measles cases in Utah County, all involving individuals under the age of 18, many of whom are unvaccinated. As the holiday season approaches, health officials are urging caution, particularly for families traveling with young children. Airports are hubs for germs due to the influx of people from various locations, making it crucial for travelers to ensure their vaccinations are current. Doctors are particularly concerned about the vulnerability of infants, prompting health departments to recommend administering the measles vaccine to children as early as six months. Parents are advised to monitor for symptoms in infants who are not yet eligible for vaccination. Symptoms to watch for include red, watery eyes, fever, and a subsequent rash. Health officials emphasize the importance of informing medical facilities ahead of time if a patient has been exposed to measles, as this helps minimize exposure to others. Patients may be directed to use a different entrance or designated exam rooms to limit potential contagion. Medical professionals express frustration over the rise in cases, attributing it in part to misinformation surrounding vaccinations. Experts encourage the community to adhere to vaccination schedules to achieve herd immunity, which would help prevent the transmission of the virus. In terms of vaccination recommendations, children should receive two doses of the measles vaccine: the first between 12 to 15 months of age and the second between 4 to 6 years. Adults born before 1957 generally do not require vaccination due to likely immunity from past infections. Adults vaccinated prior to 1968 should receive a second dose due to the lesser effectiveness of earlier vaccines. Those vaccinated in 1968 or later are considered fully protected, although specific higher-risk groups should receive two doses. For the latest information on measles cases and vaccination guidelines, residents can visit the state health department's website.