A person with Measles (Photo – rush.edu)
Los Angeles County health officials have confirmed a third case of measles, with all reported cases linked to travel-related exposure.
By News desk
Public health authorities say individuals who visited Mardi Gras Tuesday restaurant, located at 14543 Ventura Blvd. in Sherman Oaks, on January 24, 2026, between 11:30 am and 2:30 pm, may have been exposed to the virus.
The Pasadena Public Health Department (PPHD) emphasized that, as of February 3, 2026, there are no confirmed measles cases among Pasadena residents this year. However, officials note increasing measles activity in neighboring jurisdictions, including Los Angeles County and Orange County, over the past seven days. PPHD continues to closely monitor the situation and remains prepared to respond to any potential local exposures.
“With increasing measles activity across the nation and region, I urge Pasadena residents to take steps now to protect their health and the health of their loved ones,” said Manuel Carmona, Director of Public Health. “Getting vaccinated remains the most effective way to protect yourself and prevent the spread of disease in our community.”
Measles is a highly contagious and serious airborne disease caused by a virus. Symptoms typically appear seven to 14 days after exposure and include a high fever—often exceeding 104 degrees Fahrenheit—along with cough, runny nose, red and watery eyes, and a rash. Complications occur in up to 40 percent of infected individuals and can include blindness, hearing loss, pneumonia, seizures, and meningitis. There are no antiviral medications specifically approved to treat measles; care is supportive.
While measles can affect people of all ages, those at higher risk for severe complications include adults over 20 years old, children under 5, pregnant women, and individuals with weakened immune systems, such as those with leukemia or HIV infection. PPHD works closely with Pasadena’s public and private schools to ensure they receive up-to-date guidance on measles prevention and protection.
Nationally, measles cases have risen to what health officials describe as dangerously high levels. As of January 30, 2026, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reported 588 confirmed measles cases across 17 states, including three cases among international visitors to the United States. This pace significantly exceeds the 227 cases reported nationwide during all of 2025.
California is also experiencing elevated measles activity compared with prior years. As of February 3, 2026, nine confirmed cases have been reported statewide, compared with 25 cases during all of 2025. Over the past seven days, Los Angeles County has confirmed three cases and Orange County has confirmed two. All cases reported in California this year have occurred in unvaccinated individuals or those with unknown vaccination status. Most Los Angeles County cases are linked to domestic or international travel to areas experiencing large outbreaks. No measles-related deaths have been reported in California this year.
“Receiving the measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR) vaccine is the most effective way to prevent the spread of measles and protect the community,” said Acting Health Officer Dr. Parveen Kaur. “Recent measles outbreaks highlight the importance of vaccination for anyone who has not yet been immunized.”
Health officials report that one dose of the MMR vaccine is 93 percent effective against measles, while two doses are 97 percent effective. Community protection is achieved when at least 95 percent of the population receives two doses. Children are recommended to receive the first dose at 12 to 15 months of age and a second dose between 4 and 6 years old, though the second dose may be administered as early as 28 days after the first. Individuals who are unsure of their vaccination status are advised to consult their healthcare provider.
Officials also urge unvaccinated individuals planning to travel to consult with a doctor prior to departure, particularly when traveling internationally or to areas experiencing active outbreaks. After travel, individuals should monitor for measles symptoms for three weeks and contact a healthcare provider immediately if symptoms develop, informing the facility of recent travel before arrival.
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