Fourth Measles Case Confirmed in Los Angeles County Amid National Spike
Los Angeles County health officials have confirmed a fourth case of measles this year, raising concerns as the U.S. Experiences a resurgence of the highly contagious virus. The infected individual recently traveled internationally, arriving at Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) on February 9 aboard Singapore Airlines Flight 38.
Exposure Locations Identified
The Los Angeles County Department of Public Health has identified potential exposure locations in the San Gabriel Valley. The individual visited several fast-food restaurants between February 10 and February 13, potentially exposing others to the virus. Specific locations and times include:
- Burger King, Montebello: 1212 West Beverly Blvd., February 10, 5:30 p.m. To 7 p.m.
- Taqueria El Atacor, Whittier: 11156 1/2 Whittier Blvd., February 11, 3 p.m. To 5 p.m.
- Domino’s Pizza, Montebello: 803 West Whittier Blvd., February 12, 4 p.m. To 5:15 p.m.
- 7-Eleven, Montebello: 1106 West Beverly Blvd., February 13, 4:30 p.m. To 5:45 p.m.
Individuals who were in the Tom Bradley International Terminal (Terminal B) at LAX on February 9 from 7:30 p.m. To 9:40 p.m. May similarly have been exposed.
Symptoms and What to Do
Symptoms of measles typically appear seven to 21 days after exposure and include:
- Fever
- Cough
- Runny nose
- Red eyes
- Rash
If you experience these symptoms, health officials advise staying home and avoiding contact with others. It is crucial to contact your healthcare provider immediately, but do not proceed to a healthcare facility without first informing them of your symptoms.
The monitoring deadline for symptoms ranges from March 2 at LAX until March 6 at the 7-Eleven location for individuals who visited those spaces around the same time as the infected person.
Vaccination is Key
“As measles cases increase, it is key that residents take steps to make sure they are fully protected,” said Dr. Muntu Davis, L.A. County Health Officer. The measles-mumps-rubella (MMR) vaccine is the safest and most reliable way to prevent measles and protect yourself, your family, and your community.”
Children age 1 year and older are considered fully immunized after receiving two doses of the MMR vaccine.
National Measles Increase
Measles cases are on the rise nationally. According to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, there were 2,280 confirmed measles cases in the U.S. In 2023, the highest annual total since 1991. As of February 12, 2026, 910 cases had already been confirmed nationwide this year, including 15 in California. This increase is linked to falling vaccination rates, which allows the virus to spread more easily in communities with lower vaccine coverage.
Key Takeaways
- A fourth measles case has been confirmed in Los Angeles County.
- Potential exposure locations have been identified in the San Gabriel Valley and at LAX.
- Symptoms include fever, cough, runny nose, red eyes, and a rash.
- Vaccination with the MMR vaccine is the most effective way to prevent measles.
- Measles cases are increasing nationally due to declining vaccination rates.
The post LA County Measles Cases Rise: Exposure at LAX & Local Restaurants appeared first on Archynewsy.