SALT LAKE CITY — As we head back to school, health officials are preparing for the potential spread of illnesses, including one of the most contagious: measles.

This summer, measles cases across the country surged to a record high since the disease was declared eliminated in the U.S. 25 years ago.

Nicholas Rupp with the Salt Lake County Health Department said while all is calm right now, there are some concerns.

“We have people who are traveling all over the country still, and they could very easily bring a case of measles back home to Utah,” Rupp said.

Some cases are going unreported.

Pediatrician Ellie Brownstein said measles is one of the most contagious diseases.

“It is airborne, meaning it spreads through the air. It can hang in the air for up to four hours after someone has bee

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