MENTALHEALTH.INFOLABMED.COM - Public health officials in Los Angeles County have confirmed the second measles case of 2026.

This concerning development involves an international traveler who visited several high-traffic locations across both Los Angeles and Orange Counties.

During their contagious period, this individual potentially exposed thousands of residents and tourists to the highly infectious disease.

Understanding the Exposure: Where and When?

The journey of the infected patient began with their arrival at Tom Bradley International Airport (Terminal B) on Monday, January 26.

They landed via Viva Aerobus Flight 518 at gate 201A.

Health officials have meticulously identified several specific windows during which potential measles exposure occurred.

Key Exposure Locations and Times:

  • LAX Terminal B: Monday, Jan. 26 (10:45 p.m.) to Tuesday, Jan. 27 (1 a.m.).

  • Disneyland Resort: Wednesday, Jan. 28, including Goofy's Kitchen (10:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m.) and both Disneyland Park and Disney California Adventure (12:30 p.m. to closing).

  • Dunkin' Donuts (Woodland Hills): Friday, Jan. 30, at 22020 Ventura Blvd. (3 p.m. to 4:45 p.m.).

Dr. Muntu Davis, LA County Health Officer, emphasized the gravity of the situation.

"Measles is a serious respiratory disease that spreads easily through the air and on surfaces, particularly among people who are not already protected from it," he stated.

He also highlighted a critical aspect: an infected person can transmit the illness for four days even before a distinctive rash appears.

Nationally, the U.S. has recorded 588 confirmed measles cases so far this year.

This staggering figure represents the highest January total since measles was declared eliminated in the year 2000.

A significant portion of these cases is linked to ongoing outbreaks in South Carolina, Arizona, and Utah.

Uncertainties Remain: The Unfolding Situation

Despite confirming the current case, officials are still actively working to pinpoint other potential exposure sites within LA County.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) is currently reaching out to passengers who were seated near the traveler on Flight 518.

However, the total number of individuals potentially exposed at Disneyland, described as a "densely populated area," remains undetermined.

Key Dates: A Detailed Timeline for Measles Exposure

  • Jan. 26: Patient arrives at LAX on Viva Aerobus Flight 518.

  • Jan. 28: Patient visits Disneyland Resort and Goofy’s Kitchen.

  • Jan. 30: Patient visits Dunkin' Donuts in Woodland Hills.

  • Jan. 31: L.A. and Orange County health departments officially confirmed the infection.

  • Feb. 16: Monitoring deadline for those potentially exposed at LAX.

  • Feb. 18: Monitoring deadline for individuals exposed at Disneyland.

  • Feb. 20: Final monitoring deadline for those exposed at Dunkin' Donuts.

Your Immediate Action: What You Need to Do After Potential Exposure

Public health officials are urging immediate action for anyone who visited any of the identified exposure sites.

It is crucial to first confirm your immunity by ensuring you have received the MMR (Measles, Mumps, and Rubella) vaccine.

Secondly, closely monitor yourself for typical measles symptoms, which include fever, cough, red watery eyes, and a rash that typically begins at the head.

If symptoms do develop, it is vital to stay home and contact your doctor by phone before visiting a clinic.

This precaution helps prevent further exposure to others in waiting rooms.

Furthermore, if your exposure occurred less than seven days ago, you should consult a healthcare provider promptly regarding preventative options such as a vaccine or immune globulin.