California Warns of Measles Exposure in Six Counties After Unvaccinated Passenger Travels by Train

 California Warns of Measles Exposure in Six Counties After Unvaccinated Passenger Travels by Train

California health officials are warning residents about a possible measles exposure after an unvaccinated passenger diagnosed with measles traveled through six counties using Amtrak trains and connecting buses.

The California Department of Public Health said the traveler moved through Alameda, Butte, Kern, Los Angeles, Sacramento and San Joaquin counties, potentially exposing other passengers and people at transportation stations.

Passenger Traveled Across California

According to health officials, the passenger entered California on an Amtrak train that arrived in Los Angeles on September 10. The traveler then continued through several California communities, including Bakersfield, Stockton, Oroville, Sacramento and Emeryville, before eventually leaving the state for Denver.

Because measles is extremely contagious, people who were on the same trains or buses—or who visited the same stations during the relevant periods—could have been exposed.

Health authorities are working with local and federal partners to identify and notify people who may have come into contact with the infected passenger.

Why Measles Is a Serious Concern

Measles is a highly contagious viral infection that can spread through the air when an infected person coughs, sneezes or breathes. Symptoms commonly include fever, cough, runny nose and red or watery eyes, followed by a characteristic rash.

Although many people recover, measles can cause serious complications, including pneumonia and inflammation of the brain. Children and other vulnerable people can face particularly serious risks.

California health officials are urging residents to check their vaccination status and speak with a healthcare professional if they believe they may have been exposed.

Health Officials Emphasize MMR Vaccination

The measles, mumps and rubella (MMR) vaccine remains the primary protection against measles. Health officials are encouraging people who are not vaccinated or are unsure of their vaccination status to consult a healthcare provider.

The warning comes as measles continues to pose a public-health challenge across the United States. California officials have stressed that vaccination can help prevent additional infections and protect people who are particularly vulnerable to severe disease.

What Travelers Should Do

People who may have traveled on the affected trains or buses, or visited the listed stations during the potential exposure periods, should monitor themselves for symptoms and contact a healthcare provider if they develop signs of measles.

Anyone concerned about a possible exposure should call ahead before visiting a medical facility, since measles can spread easily to other patients and healthcare workers.