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An example of measles

The Wyoming Department of Health (WDH) has confirmed a third case of measles in Teton County, marking the state’s first measles outbreak of 2026. The case is an adult with an unknown vaccination status and is linked to the previous two Teton County cases through the same chain of transmission. Measles is a highly contagious virus that can cause severe illness.

The public may have been exposed to measles at the following locations and times:

Annie’s Thai Kitchen, 265 W Broadway, Jackson, WY 83001

July 4, 2026, 5:00 PM through 8:00 PM

Teton Village, Base of Jackson Hole Mountain Resort (July 4 fireworks event, outdoor exposures only)

July 4, 2026, 6:30 PM through 11:00 PM

Colter Bay Launderette and Showers, Grand Teton National Park, 100 Colter Bay Village Rd, Moran, WY 83013

July 5, 2026, 6:45 AM through 5:15 PM

July 6, 2026, 6:45 AM through 5:15 PM

July 7, 2026, 1:30 PM through 10:30 PM

Measles is highly contagious and can cause serious illness, including pneumonia, encephalitis, hospitalization, and death. Vaccination is the best way to prevent measles infection. For more information on measles, including case counts, exposure locations, and guidance on what to do if you have been exposed, visit https://health.wyo.gov/publichealth/infectious-disease-epidemiology-unit/disease/measles/.

Lower Valley Energy responds to gate failure at Swift Creek Reservoir

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Fourth Measles Case of 2026 Confirmed by Wyoming Department of Health

July 13, 2026

The Wyoming Department of Health (WDH) has confirmed a third case of measles in Teton County, marking the state’s first measles outbreak of 2026. The case is an adult with an unknown vaccination status and is linked to the previous... Read More

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SVI Radio Interview: John Taylor, bringing The Wall That Heals to Star Valley

July 13, 2026

https://svinews.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/07/7-13-John-Taylor.mp3 Read More

SVI Radio Interview: Kelly Hoffman, Lincoln County Fire Warden on restrictions

July 13, 2026

https://svinews.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/07/7-13-Kelly-Hoffman.mp3 Read More

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Body of missing Snake River drowning victim found by Palisades campers

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Second Measles Case of 2026 Confirmed by Wyoming Department of Health

July 11, 2026

The Wyoming Department of Health (WDH) has confirmed a case of measles in an unvaccinated adult from Teton County. Measles is a highly contagious infection that can cause severe illness. The public may have been exposed to measles at the... Read More

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The following Letters to the Editor appeared in the July 8, 2026 edition of the Star Valley Independent. $3.6 Million Sounds Generous—Until You Do the Math By Amber Hyde Disclaimer: The following article is protected speech under the First Amendment... Read More

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What Matters Most When Investing in a Laser Marking Machine

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