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Santa Clara County Reports Second Measles Case

  //health-fitness.news-articles.net/content/2026/ .. ta-clara-county-reports-second-measles-case.html
  Published in Health and Fitness on Friday, February 27th 2026 at 15:54 GMT by ABC7 San Francisco
      Locales: California, UNITED STATES

SANTA CLARA COUNTY, Calif. - February 27th, 2026 - The Santa Clara County Public Health Department today announced a second confirmed case of measles within the county this year, sparking renewed concerns about a potential resurgence of the highly contagious disease. Health officials are actively investigating the latest case and working to identify and notify any individuals who may have been exposed.

This latest development comes amidst a broader national and global pattern of increasing measles cases, a trend health experts attribute to declining vaccination rates. While measles was declared eliminated in the United States in 2000, imported cases and localized outbreaks continue to occur, particularly within communities where vaccination coverage is low. The current situation in Santa Clara County is being closely monitored, as the potential for further spread is significant.

"Measles is incredibly contagious - far more so than COVID-19," explained Dr. Emily Carter, Chief Epidemiologist at the Santa Clara County Public Health Department. "An infected person can release the virus into the air when they cough or sneeze, and it can remain infectious for up to two hours even after they've left the room. This makes containment challenging, and vaccination remains the most effective preventative measure."

The symptoms of measles typically begin with a high fever, cough, runny nose, and red, watery eyes. These are often followed by the appearance of a characteristic rash that starts on the face and spreads to the rest of the body. Complications from measles can be severe, including pneumonia, encephalitis (inflammation of the brain), and even death, particularly in young children and individuals with weakened immune systems.

The Santa Clara County Public Health Department is urging anyone who believes they may have been exposed to measles to immediately contact their healthcare provider before visiting any medical facility. This allows providers to take appropriate precautions to prevent the spread of the virus to other patients. The department also emphasizes the importance of reviewing vaccination records and ensuring that all family members are up-to-date on their measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR) vaccinations.

"We are particularly concerned about those who may not have received two doses of the MMR vaccine, or who are unsure of their vaccination status," Dr. Carter stated. "The MMR vaccine is highly effective, providing approximately 97% protection against measles. It's crucial to remember that even one dose offers some protection, but two doses are recommended for full immunity."

Public health officials are tracing the source of the current case, hoping to understand how the infection was introduced into the community. This investigation will involve identifying close contacts of the infected individual and assessing their vaccination status. In some instances, unvaccinated individuals who have been exposed may be offered the MMR vaccine or immunoglobulin, which can provide temporary protection against the virus.

The rise in measles cases isn't limited to Santa Clara County or even the United States. Globally, several countries are experiencing significant outbreaks, fueled by vaccine hesitancy and disruptions to immunization programs. Travelers are advised to ensure they are fully vaccinated before embarking on international trips, particularly to regions where measles is prevalent. The CDC website ([ https://www.cdc.gov/measles/index.html ]) provides detailed information on measles, including travel recommendations and vaccination guidelines.

The Santa Clara County Public Health Department is reinforcing its commitment to protecting the community's health and preventing the spread of infectious diseases. Residents are encouraged to visit the department's website ([ http://www.sccphd.org/ ]) for the latest information on measles, vaccination resources, and guidance on what to do if they suspect they may have been exposed. The department is also hosting a community information session next week to address public concerns and answer questions about measles and vaccination. Details about the session will be posted on the department's website and social media channels.