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Measles outbreak in California spreads from Disneyland to high school

Eighteen cases of measles have been confirmed in Orange County, Calif., according to the Orange County Health Care Agency.

On Jan. 7, the California Department of Public Health confirmed seven people with measles, all of whom reported visiting Disneyland or Disney California Adventure Park between Dec. 15-20.

Ten of the confirmed cases in Orange County are connected to Disneyland or the adventure park, according to the Orange County Health Care Agency (OCHCA).

Source of infection for the six most recent cases of measles is unknown, as they were not exposed at Disneyland and had no known contact with any confirmed cases linked to the theme parks.

“The identification of six measles cases with acquisition from unknown community contacts indicates exposure to measles is more widespread throughout the county,” according to an OCHCA press release. “The Health Care Agency expects that the measles outbreak will continue to spread, so all should be aware of the signs and symptoms of measles. Health officials remind the public that the best way to prevent the measles is by getting vaccinated.”

A letter from the OCHCA to caregivers of students at Huntington Beach High School in Orange County confirms that an individual with measles was at the school between Jan. 6-8. The school is reportedly taking steps to stop the spread of disease by dismissing students who are not vaccinated against measles.