Measles, a highly contagious respiratory virus that hasn't been reported in Montana in nearly three decades, continues to ripple across the state, with the number of confirmed cases reaching 17 as of Tuesday afternoon.

Montana health officials validated there have been cases in four counties — two in Yellowstone, two in Flathead, three in Hill and 10 in Gallatin. Two people have been hospitalized as a result of their illness.

All patients are state residents and are either unvaccinated or have unknown vaccination statuses. Health experts say vaccines are the the most effective way to prevent contracting the virus, which can be fatal for people who are not immunized or have vulnerable immune systems.

The first cluster of cases was confirmed in Gallatin County in April as cases popped up

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