Measles Exposure at Disneyland and LAX Prompts Orange County Health Alert
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Orange county, CA – Public health officials are urging residents to verify their immunity status following a confirmed case of measles in an international traveler who recently visited Disneyland and Los Angeles International Airport (LAX).The Orange county Health care Agency (HCA) received notification of the case and is working to mitigate potential exposure.
The individual,who arrived at LAX,visited Goofy’s Kitchen in the Disneyland Hotel on Wednesday,January 28,2026,from 10:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m., and both Disneyland Park and Disney California Adventure Park from 12:30 p.m. until closing. Anyone present at thes locations during those times may be at risk of developing measles within 7 to 21 days.
“Measles doesn’t only affect people who travel internationally-everyone is at risk if they’re not protected,” stated a senior health official with the HCA. “We urge anyone who may have been exposed to check their vaccination records or contact their healthcare provider.”
what to Do If you Think You Were Exposed
- If Exposed Less Than 7 Days Ago: Consult a healthcare provider about vaccination or immune globulin for preventative measures. Immune globulin is particularly recommended for infants under 12 months, pregnant individuals without immunity, and those with compromised immune systems.
- Exposure More Than 7 Days Ago: Individuals who are not immune should remain at home and limit contact with others for 21 days following potential exposure.
- Monitor for Symptoms: watch for the development of fever and/or an unexplained rash between 7 and 21 days after exposure. If symptoms appear, immediately contact a healthcare provider for guidance.
- Suspect Measles? Call your medical provider before visiting any healthcare facility to prevent potential spread.
The HCA’s Communicable Disease Control Division (CDCD) is actively collaborating with Disneyland to identify and contact possibly exposed employees. Additional information regarding exposure at LAX and within Los Angeles County can be found on the LA Department of Public Health website: http://publichealth.lacounty.gov/media/.
Rising Measles Cases Nationally
This incident occurs against a backdrop of increasing measles cases across the United States. according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), as of January 30, 2026, 588 confirmed cases of measles have been reported nationwide just one month into the year. This follows 2,267 cases in 2025, marking the highest annual total in over three decades. .
Measles is a highly contagious viral illness spread through respiratory droplets produced when an infected person coughs, sneezes, or breathes. Symptoms typically begin with fever,cough,a runny nose,and red eyes,followed by a rash that originates on the face and spreads throughout the body.
Vaccination Remains Key to Prevention
Measles is preventable with two doses of the MMR vaccine. Individuals who have received both doses are considered protected. adults born before 1957, or those who have previously had measles, are generally immune. Routine immunization recommendations include:
- First MMR dose: 12-15 months of age
- Second MMR dose: 4-6 years of age
- Infants 6-11 months traveling internationally or to areas experiencing outbreaks should receive an early dose.
Vaccinating children, adolescents, and adults also provides indirect protection to infants too young to be vaccinated. The west Coast Health Alliance (WCHA) and other leading medical organizations strongly advocate for vaccination to safeguard children’s health.
Clinicians in Orange County are required to immediately report suspected measles cases to the HCA’s Communicable Disease Control Division at 1 (714) 834-8180. Clinicians or members of the public with questions can contact the HCA Health Referral Line.
the OC Health Care Agency (HCA) remains committed to protecting and promoting the health of the community through collaboration and resource coordination. More information about the HCA’s services and resources is available at www.ochealthinfo.com.
