Measles Cases Rise: County Health Dept. Recommends Vaccination

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(SANTA BARBARA, Calif.) — The Santa Barbara County Health Department advises residents who are not yet immune to measles to get vaccinated against this highly contagious disease. The best protection against measles infection is the measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR) vaccine. As of February 9, 2026, California has recorded a total of 17 cases statewide. This includes an outbreak of eight related cases in Shasta County, the first measles outbreak in the state since 2020. So far not Cases of measles have been reported in Santa Barbara County. County Health is closely monitoring surveillance data and collaborating with local healthcare providers to ensure the community remains informed and protected.

“Measles is one of the most contagious and dangerous diseases, capable of causing severe pneumonia, brain complications and even death.” Henning Ansorg, physician and county health officer. «The MMR vaccine is safe, well tolerated and incredibly effective: a single dose provides 93% protection against measles. “We can prevent measles with vaccination.”

Measles is a very contagious viral disease. Unvaccinated people, especially young children and pregnant women, are at highest risk of serious illness and even death. Approximately 90% of unvaccinated people exposed to measles will contract the disease. Symptoms include fever that lasts a couple of days, followed by cough, runny nose, conjunctivitis (pink eye), and hives. Infected people can spread measles about four days before the rash appears and up to four days afterward.

Here are some things you can do to prevent measles:

• Check your vaccination status. If you are unsure about your vaccination status, your immunity to measles, or if you have never received the MMR vaccine, consult your healthcare provider. You can find your or your child’s immunization history on the California Digital Vaccine Registry (DVR) website.

• Before traveling abroad, everyone over 12 months of age should receive two doses of the MMR vaccine, and it is recommended that babies between 6 and 11 months receive one dose of the MMR vaccine. Families with children traveling to regions of the United States where there are active outbreaks should consult with a healthcare provider regarding vaccination recommendations for international travel.

• Make an appointment to get vaccinated by contacting your local pharmacy or healthcare provider. MMR vaccines are covered for most people through health insurance plans, including Medi-Cal.

For more information, visit: https://www.countyofsb.org/1637/Immunization.