Measles Outbreak: A Growing Concern in Southern California
The recent surge in measles cases across the nation and beyond has reached the Southland, with a confirmed case in an international traveler who visited a beloved Disney park. This news serves as a stark reminder of the importance of vaccination and the potential risks we face.
The Spread of Measles in Southern California
In the past week, Orange County has reported two cases, while L.A. County has confirmed three. The most recent case in Los Angeles involved a resident who visited a Sherman Oaks restaurant while infectious. Notably, all infections have been linked to international travel, prompting public health officials to urge residents to get vaccinated.
Potential Exposure at Disney Parks
On Wednesday, an infected individual visited Goofy's Kitchen at Downtown Disney from 10:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. and then spent time at Disney California Adventure Park from 12:30 p.m. until closing. In L.A. County, another infected person was at the Mardi Gras Tuesday restaurant on Ventura Boulevard on January 24 from 11:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. Those who were at these locations may develop measles symptoms within 7 to 21 days after exposure. Visitors to the amusement park on Wednesday are advised to consult their healthcare providers about vaccination and their immunity status.
The Risk to All, Not Just International Travelers
Dr. Anissa Davis, Orange County's deputy county health officer, emphasizes that measles is not limited to international travelers. "Everyone is at risk if they're not protected," she warns. "Measles is highly contagious and can spread quickly within communities, even among those who haven't traveled. The best protection is vaccination before exposure."
Disney Attendance and Potential Impact
Disney officials do not disclose daily attendance figures, but estimates suggest that Disneyland typically sees around 65,000 visitors on a "normal day." The Star Wars: Galaxy's Edge expansion increased daily capacity to approximately 80,000. Disney's California Adventure Park attracts an estimated 24,000 to 27,000 visitors daily.
Confirmed Cases and Potential Exposure Locations
Earlier last week, the OC Healthcare Agency confirmed a measles case in a young adult who had recently traveled internationally. The infected individual visited a gym in Ladera Ranch on January 23 and an urgent care facility on January 23 and 26. L.A. County has confirmed three cases, with potential exposure locations identified for the second and third cases. Those who were at LAX Terminal B on January 26-27 and the Dunkin' Donuts in Woodland Hills on Friday may have been exposed.
Advice for the Unvaccinated
If exposure occurred within the last week, unvaccinated individuals should contact a healthcare provider. Immunoglobulin is recommended for certain high-risk groups, including infants under 12 months, pregnant individuals without immunity, and those with weakened immune systems. If exposure was more than a week ago, non-immune individuals should self-isolate for 21 days and limit interactions. They should monitor for symptoms, including fever and rash, for up to 21 days after exposure.
Collaboration for Employee Safety
The Health Care Agency's Communicable Disease Control Division is working with Disneyland to identify and contact employees who may have been exposed to measles.
The Link Between Vaccination Rates and Measles Cases
U.S. measles cases have risen as vaccination rates have declined in recent years. This decline has allowed the highly contagious virus to spread in communities with lower immunization coverage. According to the CDC, there were 3,246 confirmed measles cases in the U.S. from 2014 to 2024, with 2,267 cases in 2025, the highest yearly total since the early 1990s.
A Call to Action
As we navigate this public health concern, it's crucial to stay informed and take necessary precautions. Vaccination remains the most effective way to protect ourselves and our communities. Let's prioritize our health and the well-being of those around us.
What are your thoughts on the recent measles outbreak and the importance of vaccination? Feel free to share your opinions and experiences in the comments below!
