A toddler in Orange County has been diagnosed with measles, according to the Orange County Health Care Agency (HCA). The family of the infected child isolated during the contagious period, minimizing the risk of spreading the virus. Nationally, there have been 1,514 reported cases of measles, with 23 new cases emerging in the past couple of weeks.
Dr. Regina Chinsio-Kwong, the county health officer, emphasized the severity of measles, stating, “Measles is a highly contagious virus that can cause severe illness such as pneumonia, brain swelling, and even death, especially in young children who are not protected.” She noted that about one in eight people diagnosed with measles in the U.S. require hospitalization, a figure that increases to one in five for children under five.
The HCA confirmed that the toddler had recently returned from international travel and visited several locations in Orange County while infectious. The agency is collaborating with the Children’s Hospital of Orange County to contact individuals who may have been exposed, particularly those at higher risk, such as infants, pregnant women, and individuals with compromised immune systems.
Health officials urge anyone who may have been exposed to verify their vaccination status. Dr. Chinsio-Kwong advised, “If you are planning to travel and have not been immunized, talk to a provider to consider getting a vaccine. It is important for those returning from travel to monitor for symptoms.” Common symptoms of measles include fever, rash, cough, and red, watery eyes.
For more information about measles and vaccination, visit the OC Health Care Agency website or the CDC website.
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