SANTA CLARA COUNTY, Calif.: In light of a significant increase in measles cases across the United States, health officials from nine Bay Area counties and nearby jurisdictions are urging residents to ensure they are vaccinated against the disease.
As of March 14, 2025, over 300 measles cases have been reported nationally, including a large outbreak among primarily unvaccinated children in Texas and nearby states, resulting in two deaths—the first in the U.S. since 2015.
Key Facts:
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National Cases: Over 300 reported as of March 14, 2025.
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California Cases: Five reported as of March 11, 2025, all linked to international travel.
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Affected Counties: Alameda, Contra Costa, Marin, Napa, Santa Clara, San Francisco, San Mateo, Solano, Sonoma, and the City of Berkeley.
Health officials emphasize the importance of the Measles, Mumps, and Rubella (MMR) vaccine, which is 93% effective after one dose and 97% effective after two doses. Individuals born between 1957 and 1969 may have received only one dose and are advised to consider a second dose, especially if planning international travel.
Measles is a highly contagious viral disease that can lead to severe health complications, including pneumonia, encephalitis, and death. Symptoms typically begin with a high fever, cough, runny nose, and red, watery eyes, followed by a characteristic rash that usually starts on the face and spreads to the rest of the body.
The virus spreads through respiratory droplets when an infected person coughs or sneezes and can remain airborne for up to two hours.
“Vaccination against measles is the single most effective way to prevent getting sick with the disease,” said Dr. Monika Roy, Communicable Disease Controller and Assistant Health Officer at the County of Santa Clara Public Health Department. “If you are not already vaccinated, are unsure of your vaccination status, or will be traveling internationally, talk with your doctor about getting the MMR vaccine.”
Bay Area health officials continue to monitor the situation closely and are collaborating with state and national agencies to prevent further spread of the disease. They stress that vaccination remains the most effective tool in protecting individuals and communities from measles.
Do You Know? Measles was declared eliminated in the United States in 2000, meaning there was no continuous disease transmission for more than 12 months. However, measles cases have resurged in recent years, primarily due to international travel and pockets of unvaccinated individuals.
Key Terms:
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MMR Vaccine: A vaccine that protects against measles, mumps, and rubella.
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Encephalitis: Inflammation of the brain, which can be a serious complication of measles.
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Respiratory Droplets: Tiny droplets expelled from the respiratory tract that can carry infectious agents like viruses.