Ex-FLDS Community in Arizona Faces Second Largest Measles Outbreak in the Country

The towns of Hildale, Utah, and Colorado City, Arizona, collectively known as Short Creek, have long been associated with the Fundamentalist Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints (FLDS). The community, which refers to its members as “crikers,” has drawn national attention over the past decade due to its history under the leadership of Warren Jeffs, a prophet and former child sex offender. Now, Short Creek is facing a new challenge: a significant measles outbreak.

The former home of Warren Jeffs, surrounded by high brick walls, has been repurposed into the Short Creek Dream Center. This organization provides support for individuals escaping domestic violence, recovering from substance abuse, overcoming homelessness, and healing from trauma. The center also serves the broader community through food banks and outreach programs.

Luke Merideth, a Short Creek resident and co-founder of the Dream Center, noted that recent measles cases have affected families in the community. “I do know that there were just whole families that were down for a week or two, staying at home, feeling miserable, recovering.” Measles, a highly contagious viral infection, spreads easily through the air and surfaces. It can be life-threatening for those with weakened immune systems, young children, and pregnant women.

Mohave County has reported 128 measles cases this year, leading to three hospitalizations. Additional exposures have been reported in Coconino and Maricopa counties, with cases spreading to Texas, where 803 infections have been documented as of November 17. The FLDS has historically rejected vaccinations, a belief that continues to influence the community’s approach to health and government.

Luke Merideth attributed the community’s distrust of government institutions as a factor in the outbreak. “The culture of distrust in the government probably contributed to what would have been more of a spike here than even another small rural town.” This distrust, rooted in the community’s past, has had lasting effects on public health practices.

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