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Measles Exposure at LA Restaurants Sparks Vigilance

  //health-fitness.news-articles.net/content/2026/ .. exposure-at-la-restaurants-sparks-vigilance.html
  Published in Health and Fitness on Sunday, February 22nd 2026 at 12:54 GMT by Patch
      Locales: California, UNITED STATES

Los Angeles, CA - February 22nd, 2026 - Los Angeles County public health officials are once again urging vigilance after a confirmed measles case led to potential exposures at three popular restaurants across the county. The individual, who was infectious at the time, visited Mendocino Farms in Santa Monica, Porto's Bakery in Downey, and Wood Ranch BBQ & Grill in Burbank between February 14th and February 19th, 2024. This incident, while localized, is occurring against a backdrop of rising measles cases nationally and internationally, prompting concerns about a potential resurgence of the highly contagious disease.

Exposure Details:

• Mendocino Farms (Santa Monica): February 14, 2024, 11:30 a.m. - 1:30 p.m.
• Porto's Bakery (Downey): February 16, 2024, 2:30 p.m. - 4:30 p.m.
• Wood Ranch BBQ & Grill (Burbank): February 19, 2024, 6:30 p.m. - 8:30 p.m.

Anyone who was present at these locations during the specified times is advised to monitor themselves for symptoms, which typically manifest 7-14 days after exposure. These include fever, a persistent cough, a runny nose, and a distinctive red, blotchy rash. Public health officials are emphasizing that early detection and isolation are crucial to prevent further spread.

The Bigger Picture: A Resurgence of Measles?

This is the third confirmed measles case in Los Angeles County this year, a concerning uptick. While outbreaks have historically been contained due to high vaccination rates, recent years have seen a worrying decline in immunization coverage in some communities. This decline is attributed to several factors, including vaccine hesitancy fueled by misinformation, disruptions in healthcare access caused by the pandemic, and a general complacency born from the perceived rarity of the disease.

Nationally, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reported a significant increase in measles cases in 2025, with several outbreaks reported in states with lower vaccination rates. Experts warn that if vaccination rates don't improve, we could see a return to pre-vaccine levels of measles incidence, which were devastatingly high.

"Measles is not a mild illness," explains Dr. Anya Sharma, an epidemiologist specializing in infectious diseases. "It's highly contagious - far more so than COVID-19 - and can lead to serious complications like pneumonia, encephalitis (brain swelling), and even death, particularly in vulnerable populations such as infants and individuals with compromised immune systems."

Who is at Risk?

Individuals who have not been vaccinated against measles, or who have not had a confirmed case of measles, are at the highest risk of infection. Two doses of the MMR (measles, mumps, and rubella) vaccine are highly effective in preventing measles. However, some individuals may not be able to receive the vaccine due to medical conditions.

Public Health Response and Recommendations

The Los Angeles County Department of Public Health is actively investigating the current case and conducting contact tracing to identify and notify potentially exposed individuals. They are also reiterating the importance of vaccination as the most effective way to protect against measles.

"We urge everyone to check their vaccination records and ensure they and their families are up-to-date on the MMR vaccine," said Dr. Maria Rodriguez, LA County Public Health Officer. "If you're unsure about your vaccination status, please consult with your healthcare provider."

The Department is also working with schools and healthcare providers to raise awareness about the risk of measles and promote vaccination efforts. They are particularly focused on reaching communities with low vaccination rates and addressing concerns about vaccine safety.

Protecting Yourself and Others

• Get Vaccinated: Ensure you and your family are up-to-date on the MMR vaccine.
• Monitor for Symptoms: If you were at the exposed locations during the specified times, monitor yourself for fever, cough, runny nose, and rash.
• Isolate if Sick: If you develop symptoms, stay home and contact your healthcare provider immediately. Do not go to school, work, or other public places.
• Inform Your Healthcare Provider: Before visiting a healthcare facility, call ahead and inform them of your possible measles exposure so they can take appropriate precautions.

The current situation in Los Angeles County serves as a stark reminder of the importance of vaccination and the ongoing threat posed by preventable diseases. As measles cases continue to rise nationally, public health officials are urging everyone to take action to protect themselves and their communities.