A child in western Riverside County has been confirmed as the first measles case of 2026 in the area, according to Riverside University Health System — Public Health. Officials reported that the child, who was not vaccinated against measles and had no recent travel history outside the state or country, is currently recovering at home.
This local case comes amid a broader rise in measles cases across Southern California. In recent weeks, nine cases have been reported statewide, including cases identified in Orange, San Bernardino, and Los Angeles counties.
“As we see growing reports of measles from our neighboring counties, the risk of measles is no longer remote. It’s now also impacting us here in our own county, even among those with no recent international or out-of-state travel. The importance of timely vaccination is clear,” said Riverside County Public Health Officer Dr. Jennifer Chevinsky.
Public health officials recommend that children receive one dose of the MMR (measles, mumps, rubella) vaccine at 12 months old and a second dose between ages four and six. For infants as young as six months who are traveling internationally, an early dose is advised to reduce their risk. Older children and adults without documented MMR vaccination should receive two doses at least 28 days apart for full protection before traveling to areas where measles transmission is known. Two doses of the vaccine are estimated to be 97% effective against the disease.
Dr. Chevinsky noted that “Measles is highly infectious and can be spread through the air when a person breathes, talks, coughs or sneezes, so it is very important to call your healthcare provider if you may have been exposed and especially at the first sign of measles illness.”
Symptoms usually appear 10 to 14 days after exposure and often begin with fever followed by runny nose, cough, conjunctivitis (pink eye), and a distinctive rash that starts on the face before spreading across the body. Those infected can transmit measles from about four days before until four days after the rash appears. Complications can include pneumonia or brain swelling.
Health officials stress early detection and isolation during illness to help protect vulnerable populations such as infants too young for vaccination, pregnant women at risk for severe disease, and individuals with compromised immune systems.
Residents seeking vaccination are encouraged to contact their healthcare provider or attend upcoming public health vaccine clinics in Riverside County. Walk-in appointments are available; cost and eligibility may vary.
