Measles Cases in the U.S. Reach Highest Levels in January in Over Two Decades
Surge in Measles Cases Reported in January: Highest in 26 Years
Health officials are raising alarms as the United States experiences its highest number of reported measles cases in January for the past 26 years. The uptick is associated with ongoing outbreaks primarily in South Carolina, Utah, and Arizona, with cases also reported in Los Angeles and Orange Counties, including at Disneyland.
In Southern California alone, health authorities documented five new cases in the past week. Of these, two had no public exposure, while three did. The affected individuals had recently traveled internationally and frequented crowded locations.
One individual, whose age has not been disclosed, arrived at Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) on January 26, flying in on Viva Aerobus Flight 518 from Guadalajara, Mexico. This person was present in Terminal B from 10:45 PM that evening until 1 AM on January 27. Subsequently, on January 30, they visited a Dunkin’ Donuts located at 22020 Ventura Blvd in Woodland Hills from 3 PM to 4:45 PM.
In Orange County, a young adult with measles potentially exposed patrons at EOS Gym in Ladera Ranch on January 23, between 2 PM and 6 PM. Further exposure could have occurred at the AFC Urgent Care in the same area from 3:30 PM to 6 PM that day and again on January 26, from 5 PM to 7 PM.
Additionally, another unidentified individual in Orange County visited Goofy’s Kitchen at Disneyland Hotel on January 28 from 10:30 AM to 1:30 PM, before heading to Disneyland Park and California Adventure from 12:30 PM until closing.
Officials warn that individuals may face a risk of developing measles within 7 to 21 days following exposure. Those who are unvaccinated are advised to monitor for symptoms, noting that the risk diminishes after 21 days.
Measles is highly contagious, spreading through the air when an infected person breathes, talks, coughs, or sneezes. The virus can linger in the air and on surfaces for several hours.
Dr. Joshua Partnow, an Emergency Room Physician with Dignity Health California Hospital, emphasized the virus’s severity. "It’s just like any other virus. It can cause encephalitis, pneumonia, and other dangerous complications," he said. He stressed the importance of vaccination, stating, "Those that are not getting vaccinated are more exposed, and their bodies may not be strong enough to fight it off. The measles vaccine is really effective. It’s disappointing because we had this under control, similar to polio, through herd immunity."
As of January 30, a total of 588 measles cases have been reported nationwide this year, marking the highest number for January since the U.S. achieved elimination status in 2000.
