Los Angeles County Confirms Fourth Measles Case in 2026 From Traveler Exposure

Los Angeles County has confirmed its fourth measles case of 2026. This case is linked to an international traveler who visited LAX and several public places, increasing concern for potential spread.
By Newsroom | Health, Los Angeles |

Health Officials Announce New Measles Case Linked to International Travel

Los Angeles County is grappling with its fourth confirmed case of measles this year. The latest patient, an international traveler, visited several public locations while infectious, including Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) and various restaurants. Health officials are urging individuals who may have been exposed to monitor for symptoms and confirm their vaccination status. This case adds to a growing concern over measles, especially given the rise in travel.

Fourth measles case confirmed in L.A. County; person visited LAX, restaurants while infectious - 1

Details of the Latest Case and Potential Exposure

The Los Angeles County Department of Public Health confirmed the fourth measles case of 2026. The individual traveled from Singapore to LAX and subsequently visited several San Gabriel Valley fast-food restaurants and specific locations in Montebello and Whittier while infectious.

Fourth measles case confirmed in L.A. County; person visited LAX, restaurants while infectious - 2

  • The individual arrived at LAX on February [Date Missing].

  • Exposure periods at various restaurants and locations have been identified, with potential symptom onset dates ranging from February [Date Missing] to March 6.

  • Specific locations and times of potential exposure include:

  • 7-Eleven #25387: Last day for symptom monitoring is March 6.

  • Taqueria El Atacor #3: Last day for symptom monitoring is March 4.

  • [Specific locations in Montebello and Whittier, with dates from mid-February] (Exact dates and times are still being clarified by officials across different reports).

Previous Measles Cases in Los Angeles County

This marks the fourth case in 2026. Reports also mention previous cases:

Fourth measles case confirmed in L.A. County; person visited LAX, restaurants while infectious - 3

  • Third case (2026): A resident who visited a Sherman Oaks restaurant.

  • Earlier cases (2025): One article from July 2025 mentions a total of 7 cases so far that year in LA County, with 4 residents and 3 non-residents. Another article from May 2025 confirms the fourth case of that year. Public health officials at that time stated the patient was a visitor from abroad and that there were no public places where others may have been exposed. This contrasts with the current case's identified public exposure sites.

Measles Transmission and Prevention

Measles is a highly contagious viral illness.

  • Symptoms typically include fever, cough, runny nose, red eyes, and fatigue. A characteristic rash often appears a few days after other symptoms.

  • Incubation Period: Symptoms can appear seven to 21 days after exposure.

  • Prevention: Measles can be prevented with the measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR or MMRV) vaccine. Health officials strongly recommend that individuals ensure they are vaccinated. Those who are not immune or have not had measles in the past are at risk.

Public Health Guidance and Recommendations

Health officials are actively investigating the latest case and identifying potential contacts.

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Fourth measles case confirmed in L.A. County; person visited LAX, restaurants while infectious - 4

  • Monitoring for Symptoms: Individuals who were at the identified exposure locations during the specified times are advised to watch for measles symptoms.

  • Contacting Healthcare Providers: If symptoms develop, people are urged to call their doctor before visiting a clinic or hospital to prevent further spread.

  • Vaccination: The Los Angeles County Department of Public Health emphasizes the importance of vaccination and advises people to confirm their immunization status.

Conflicting Information on Recent Case's Infectiousness

There appears to be a discrepancy in reports regarding the infectivity of the most recent patient during their travel.

  • Article 1 and Article 2 explicitly state the person was infectious and potentially exposed others at LAX and restaurants.

  • However, Article 5, published in May 2025, states that the "latest patient was not infectious during the time of travel, and there are no public locations in the county where people may have been exposed." This suggests a difference in the details or timelines of the cases being discussed.

Expert Analysis and Public Health Concerns

The increase in measles cases is often linked to declining vaccination rates and international travel.

"Measles can be prevented with a measles, mumps, and rubella vaccine (MMR or MMRV)." – County of Los Angeles Public Health (Article 4)

Health authorities are encouraging people to consult with healthcare providers to ensure they are protected against measles, particularly with ongoing travel. The risk of infection is higher for unvaccinated individuals.

Conclusion and Next Steps

The confirmation of a fourth measles case in Los Angeles County highlights an ongoing public health challenge. The international travel associated with this case underscores the global nature of measles transmission. Public health officials are disseminating information about exposure sites and urging vaccination.

  • Further Investigations: The exact flight information for the traveler arriving at LAX is still under investigation, as noted in some reports.

  • Community Awareness: Continued public health advisories are crucial to inform residents and visitors about the risks and preventive measures.

  • Vaccination Efforts: Emphasis on MMR vaccination remains a primary strategy to curb further outbreaks.

Sources Used

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What is the latest news about measles in Los Angeles County?
Los Angeles County has confirmed its fourth case of measles in 2026. The case involves an international traveler who visited Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) and several public places while they could spread the virus.
Q: When and where could people have been exposed to measles in Los Angeles County?
The traveler arrived at LAX on February [Date Missing] and visited places like 7-Eleven #25387 (last symptom monitoring March 6) and Taqueria El Atacor #3 (last symptom monitoring March 4). Other locations in Montebello and Whittier were also visited in mid-February.
Q: What are the symptoms of measles and when do they appear?
Measles symptoms include fever, cough, runny nose, red eyes, and fatigue, often followed by a rash. Symptoms can appear 7 to 21 days after being exposed to the virus.
Q: How can people protect themselves from measles in Los Angeles County?
Health officials strongly recommend getting the measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR) vaccine. If you develop symptoms, call your doctor before visiting to avoid spreading the illness.
Q: Why is this measles case in Los Angeles County important?
This is the fourth case in 2026, showing measles is still a risk, especially with travel. The traveler's visits to public places like LAX and restaurants mean others might have been exposed and need to check their vaccination status and watch for symptoms.