Health officials urge residents to review vaccination status as statewide cases rise
Sacramento County Public Health has confirmed two cases of measles involving unvaccinated children, prompting officials to remind residents about the importance of vaccination and monitoring for symptoms following possible exposure.
According to Sacramento County Public Health, one of the children contracted measles in January while traveling to South Carolina, where a large outbreak is currently underway. The second child’s source of exposure remains unknown. As of March 2, the two cases are among 26 confirmed measles cases reported across California in 2026.
“Measles is highly contagious and can easily be brought back into our community through travel,” Sacramento County Public Health Officer Dr. Olivia Kasirye said in a statement. “The most important step for people to take right now is to make sure you and your family are up to date on the measles vaccination.”
Health officials said the child who became infected during travel is no longer symptomatic or contagious.
The second child sought medical care at Kaiser Permanente Roseville Medical Center, located at 1600 Eureka Road in Roseville, on March 2 between 6:55 a.m. and 7:14 a.m. The child is now recovering at home in isolation.
Hospital officials have identified patients and staff who may have been exposed during that time and are working with Sacramento County Public Health to notify those individuals. Infection control measures were implemented at the hospital once measles was suspected, and public health authorities were alerted.
Anyone who was at the Kaiser Permanente Roseville Medical Center during the specified time window may have been exposed and is encouraged to contact Sacramento County Public Health’s Communicable Disease Program at (916) 875-5881. Public health staff are available to assess individual risk and determine whether preventive measures, including vaccination with the measles, mumps and rubella (MMR) vaccine, may be recommended.
Measles can be prevented through vaccination with either the MMR vaccine or the measles, mumps, rubella and varicella (MMRV) vaccine. Both vaccines are typically administered in two doses, the first around one year of age and the second between four and six years old. Health officials report that two doses are about 97 percent effective in preventing measles, while a single dose provides approximately 93 percent protection.
The disease is highly contagious and spreads through airborne droplets and contaminated surfaces. Individuals can become infected simply by being in the same room as someone who is contagious. Symptoms usually develop eight to twelve days after exposure and commonly include fever, cough, runny nose and red eyes, followed by a rash that begins on the face and spreads downward across the body.
Measles can lead to serious complications, particularly among infants, young children and people with weakened immune systems.
Public health officials advise anyone experiencing measles symptoms to remain at home, avoid contact with others and call a healthcare provider before visiting a clinic or hospital. Early reporting and isolation can help prevent further spread of the virus.
Nationwide, more than 1,136 measles cases have been confirmed in the United States in 2026, according to public health data. Approximately 93 percent of those cases involved individuals who were unvaccinated or whose vaccination status was unknown. Many of the infections have been linked to domestic transmission, particularly in states including Utah, Florida and South Carolina.
Sacramento County Public Health is encouraging residents to review their vaccination records. Adults born after 1957 who do not have documentation of vaccination or prior measles infection are advised to consult a healthcare provider, as some adults may require an additional dose of the vaccine. Individuals vaccinated between 1963 and 1967 may also need revaccination.
Children should receive the MMR vaccine between 12 and 15 months of age, followed by a second dose between ages 4 and 6. Infants as young as six months old may receive an early dose prior to international travel.
Nearly all health insurance plans are required to cover the cost of MMR and MMRV vaccinations. Residents with insurance are encouraged to check with their healthcare provider or local pharmacy regarding vaccine availability. Uninsured or underinsured residents may qualify for free or low-cost immunizations through clinics participating in the Vaccines for Children and Vaccines for Adults programs. Information about participating clinics can be obtained by calling 2-1-1.
Additional information about measles and vaccinations is available atwww.sacvax.comas well as through the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and the California Department of Public Health.
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