The Los Angeles County Department of Public Health has confirmed a case of measles in a visitor who traveled through the county between March 30 and April 1, 2024. Public health officials are urging anyone who visited specific locations during that time to be vigilant about potential exposure and to review their vaccination status.
Locations with Potential Exposure:
The infected individual visited several locations in Los Angeles County, including:
Measles is a highly contagious and potentially serious disease. It can cause complications like pneumonia, encephalitis (brain swelling), and even death, especially in young children and adults with weakened immune systems.
The measles virus can stay in the air and on surfaces for hours after an infected person has left the area. People who may have been exposed should be aware of the following symptoms, which typically appear 7 to 21 days after exposure:
Public health officials emphasize the importance of measles vaccination as the best way to prevent the spread of the disease. The measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR) vaccine is a safe and effective way to protect yourself and your loved ones.
What to Do if You Think You Were Exposed:
Additional Resources:
The Los Angeles County Department of Public Health offers more information about measles, including symptoms, prevention, and vaccination on their website.
Public health officials are urging everyone to be vigilant and take steps to protect themselves and their communities from measles.