Southern California, February 9, 2026
Health officials have reported a rise in measles cases in Southern California, with seven individuals diagnosed. The outbreaks span across Los Angeles, Orange, and San Bernardino counties, prompting public health officials to emphasize vaccination and monitoring for symptoms. Locations such as Disneyland and LAX are linked to some cases, highlighting the need for increased public health awareness as vaccination rates decline.
Measles Cases Rise in Southern California
Los Angeles, CA – In recent weeks, health officials have confirmed an uptick in measles cases within Southern California, with seven individuals diagnosed in the region, including three in Los Angeles County, three in Orange County, and one in San Bernardino County. This development has prompted renewed public health awareness and discussions regarding the importance of vaccination and community health practices.
Details of Recent Cases
Los Angeles County has reported two new measles cases as of January 2026, one of which involved a resident who traveled internationally, while the second case is linked to an infectious visitor at Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) and a local Dunkin’ Donuts. There has been no public exposure identified outside healthcare settings for the first case.
In Orange County, the outbreaks have been connected to visitation at Disneyland Park and Disney California Adventure Park by an international traveler, highlighting the potential of high-traffic tourist locations to spread infectious diseases. A subsequent case also relates to this exposure.
San Bernardino County confirmed its first measles case since 2023, involving an unvaccinated minor visiting from out of state, who was present at a Walmart Supercenter. These cases underline the ongoing challenges public health officials face in managing and preventing such outbreaks.
Public Health Recommendations
Health officials encourage anyone who has been to the identified exposure sites during the specified times to monitor for symptoms such as high fever, cough, runny nose, red eyes, and a distinctive rash. The onset of these symptoms typically occurs seven to 21 days post-exposure. Those who suspect they may have been exposed are advised to stay home and consult healthcare providers immediately. Vaccination remains a crucial preventative measure against measles.
Background on Measles in the U.S.
As of early February 2026, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reported 733 confirmed measles cases nationwide, with an alarming 95% of those affected being unvaccinated or lacking verified vaccination status. This concerning trend echoes the previous year’s national statistics, where California reported 25 cases as part of a nationwide total of 2,276—marking the highest incidence since the early 1990s.
Vaccination Rates and Concerns
Recent data indicate a worrying decline in vaccination coverage among kindergarten students across California. For instance, San Diego County’s immunization rate stands at 94.8%, while San Bernardino County reports a rate of 93.5%. These figures have dropped below the critical 95% herd immunity threshold, raising concerns among health officials who stress the necessity of maintaining high vaccination rates to avert future outbreaks.
Conclusion
The recent rise in measles cases serves as a crucial reminder of the ongoing importance of vaccinations and public health awareness in Los Angeles and beyond. Residents are encouraged to check their immunization statuses and adhere to recommended health practices to protect both themselves and the wider community.
FAQ
What are the symptoms of measles?
Measles symptoms include high fever, cough, runny nose, red eyes, and a rash that typically appears three to five days after other signs of illness. The rash usually starts on the face and then spreads down to the rest of the body.
How is measles transmitted?
Measles is a highly contagious respiratory disease that spreads easily through the air and on surfaces, particularly among people who are not already protected from it.
What should I do if I was exposed to measles?
If you were at the identified exposure sites during the specified times, monitor for symptoms and seek medical care immediately if you feel ill. It’s important to stay home to prevent spreading the disease to others.
How can I protect myself from measles?
Vaccination is the most effective preventive measure against measles. Ensure you and your family are up to date with the measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR) vaccine.
Where can I get vaccinated against measles?
Measles vaccinations are available at healthcare providers’ offices, local health departments, and pharmacies. Contact your healthcare provider or local health department for more information.
Key Features
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Number of Measles Cases | Seven confirmed cases in Southern California over the past two weeks |
| Locations Affected | Los Angeles County, Orange County, San Bernardino County |
| Exposure Sites | Los Angeles International Airport (LAX), Disneyland Park, Disney California Adventure Park, Walmart Supercenter in Ontario |
| Public Health Recommendations | Monitor for symptoms, seek medical care if ill, stay home to prevent spreading the disease, ensure vaccination is up to date |
| Vaccination Rates | Decline in vaccination rates among kindergarten students in California, with some counties below the 95% herd immunity threshold |
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