Los Angeles County health officials have issued a public health alert after confirming that a person with an infectious case of measles visited Universal Studios Hollywood on Sunday, July 26, between 10 a.m. and 9 p.m. The exposure may have affected numerous park-goers, prompting officials to urge vigilance for symptoms.
The Los Angeles County Department of Public Health stated that anyone present at the theme park during the specified timeframe should monitor themselves for symptoms until August 16. Health officials emphasized that individuals who have previously contracted measles or received the measles-mumps-rubella (MMR) vaccine are generally protected. However, those who are unvaccinated or have an unknown vaccination status face a significantly higher risk of infection.
Universal Studios Hollywood response
A spokesperson for Universal Studios Hollywood confirmed in a statement that the park is cooperating with health officials. "The safety and security of our guests and team members is our highest priority," the spokesperson said. The company has not provided additional details about the incident.
Measles transmission and symptoms
Measles is a highly contagious viral respiratory disease that spreads through the air when an infected person breathes, talks, coughs, or sneezes. The virus can remain in the air and on surfaces for many hours, even after the infected person has left. An infected individual can spread the disease up to four days before a measles rash appears and up to four days after the rash appears.
Common symptoms of measles include fever, cough, runny nose, red eyes, and a rash. Health officials recommend that exposed individuals confirm their immunity status and seek medical advice if symptoms develop.
Broader public health context
Public health officials noted that the risk of exposure to infectious diseases may increase during summer travel and crowded events. Muntu Davis, Los Angeles County public health officer, urged the public to "confirm their immunity and get the MMR vaccine if needed, especially before traveling and attending crowded events."
The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reported that 93% of confirmed measles cases this year are associated with outbreaks, with 34 new outbreaks reported so far in 2024. The CDC also stated that people who were at Universal Studios Hollywood on July 26 might develop measles seven to 21 days after exposure.
What to do if exposed
Individuals who were at Universal Studios Hollywood on July 26 are advised to:
- Monitor for symptoms until August 16.
- Confirm their vaccination status or seek vaccination if unprotected.
- Contact a healthcare provider if symptoms such as fever, cough, or rash appear.