MENTALHEALTH.INFOLABMED.COM - Orange County health officials have issued a significant alert after confirming their second measles case of 2026.
This recent diagnosis involves an international traveler who made stops at Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) before visiting Disneyland last week.
On Saturday, the OC Health Care Agency released a public statement confirming the notification from both the California Department of Public Health and the Los Angeles Department of Public Health.
The traveler arrived in California via LAX before proceeding to Orange County on Wednesday, January 28, 2026.
Officials highlighted specific public exposure windows within the Disneyland Resort.
These included Goofy's Kitchen at the Disneyland Hotel, where potential exposure might have occurred from 10:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m.
Additionally, Disneyland Park and Disney California Adventure Park were identified as potential exposure sites from 12:30 p.m. until the parks closed on that same day.
The health release warned that individuals present at these specific locations during the listed dates and times could be at risk of developing measles.
Symptoms may manifest anywhere from 7 to 21 days following exposure.
Health officials have strongly urged other visitors to the Disneyland Resort to follow a crucial list of recommendations.
Essential Health Recommendations After Potential Measles Exposure
Verify your immunity status by consulting your healthcare provider regarding the Measles, Mumps, and Rubella (MMR) vaccine.
Discuss with a healthcare provider about potential vaccination or immune globulin treatment for prevention if the exposure happened less than seven days ago.
Immune globulin is specifically recommended for infants under 12 months, pregnant individuals without immunity, or those with weakened immune systems.
Remain vigilant for symptoms such as a fever or an unexplained rash, especially between seven and 21 days after the potential exposure.
Should any symptoms develop, it is crucial to contact your healthcare provider immediately for expert guidance.
If measles is suspected, call your medical provider before visiting to help prevent further transmission to others.
The HCA Communicable Disease Control Division confirmed its active collaboration with Disneyland officials.
This joint effort aims to contact any employees who might have been exposed to the virus.
Furthermore, coordination is underway with Los Angeles County and LAX officials to manage the situation comprehensively.
"Measles doesn't only affect people who travel internationally—everyone is at risk if they're not protected," stated Dr. Anissa Davis, Deputy County Health Officer.
She emphasized that measles is exceptionally contagious and can rapidly disseminate within communities, even among individuals who have not traveled.
Dr. Davis unequivocally affirmed, "The best way to protect yourself and your loved ones is to get vaccinated before exposure occurs."
Health officials further explained that measles is a highly contagious viral illness.
The virus primarily spreads through airborne particles when an infected individual breathes, coughs, or sneezes.
Direct contact with infectious droplets can also facilitate its transmission.
Recognizing Measles Symptoms
Initial symptoms of the virus typically include fever, a persistent cough, a runny nose, and red eyes.
These early signs are subsequently followed by a characteristic rash.
The rash usually begins on the face before extending across the rest of the body.
Individuals who have not been immunized against measles face a high risk of developing these symptoms within seven to 21 days post-exposure.
Officials reiterated that measles is entirely preventable with two doses of the MMR vaccine.
Those who are fully vaccinated are generally considered protected against the illness.
Earlier in 2026, Orange County had already reported its first measles case on Wednesday.
That initial case was also confirmed in a young adult with a recent history of international travel.
