A visitor with measles recently spent time at Disneyland, raising concerns about potential exposure for many park-goers. Health officials are particularly anxious, recalling the significant outbreak in 2014 that originated at the park. Although no additional measles cases have been reported from this recent visit, the risk remains high, especially given that measles can linger on surfaces for hours and in the air for up to two hours after an infected person has left the area.
Details of the Exposure
The infectious individual, a resident of Los Angeles County, first stopped at a Starbucks before heading to Disneyland on October 16. Authorities are advising anyone who was at the Starbucks located at 3006 S. Sepulveda Blvd. between 7:50 a.m. and 10 a.m., as well as park visitors from 9:15 a.m. to 8:35 p.m., to monitor for symptoms for up to three weeks post-exposure. The health department emphasizes the importance of checking vaccination records, particularly for pregnant individuals or parents of infants who might have been exposed.
Understanding Measles
Measles is known for its high contagion rate—up to 90% of unvaccinated individuals in close proximity to an infected person may contract the disease. Symptoms typically start with fever, cough, and red, watery eyes before progressing to a rash. The 2014 Disneyland outbreak led to over 150 cases across several states, attributed mainly to unvaccinated children.
In 2019 alone, the U.S. reported 1,250 confirmed measles cases across 31 states.
Additional Resources
For more information on pregnancy and related topics, including home insemination kits, check out our post here. For those interested in understanding the implications of obesity on fertility, this resource provides great insights. And if you’re curious about what to expect during your first IUI, this guide is a valuable resource.
Conclusion
In summary, a measles-infected visitor at Disneyland has prompted health officials to warn park attendees of potential exposure. While no new cases have surfaced thus far, vigilance regarding vaccination and health monitoring is crucial, echoing fears from past outbreaks.