Public health officials are investigating a potential measles exposure after an individual spent 11 hours at Universal Studios Hollywood while infected with the highly contagious viral respiratory disease, potentially exposing numerous parkgoers.
The Los Angeles County Public Health Department issued a warning on Wednesday, advising individuals who visited the theme park on Sunday, July 26, between 10 a.m. and 9 p.m. of the risk of exposure. Muntu Davis, county public health officer, emphasized the increased risk of infectious disease transmission during summer travel and urged the public to verify their immunity and receive the MMR vaccine if necessary, particularly before traveling or attending crowded events.
Measles is airborne and spreads easily through respiratory droplets when an infected person speaks, coughs, or sneezes. The virus can persist in the air and on surfaces for extended periods. An infected individual can transmit the disease from four days prior to the appearance of a rash until four days after its onset. Transmission occurs through inhaling contaminated air or touching contaminated surfaces and then touching the eyes, nose, or mouth.
Individuals who were present at Universal Studios Hollywood on July 26 may develop measles symptoms between seven and 21 days post-exposure. Health officials recommend that these individuals confirm their protection status. Those with a history of measles or who have received the recommended vaccine are likely immune but should still monitor for symptoms. Common measles symptoms include fever, cough, runny nose, red and watery eyes, and a characteristic rash. Complications, particularly for unvaccinated young children and pregnant individuals, can include pneumonia, encephalitis, hospitalization, and in severe cases, death.
Individuals who remain symptom-free for more than 21 days after exposure are no longer considered at risk, with the monitoring period ending on August 16. Those at higher risk for severe complications, including pregnant individuals, infants under 12 months, and those with weakened immune systems or who are unvaccinated, should contact their healthcare provider. If symptoms develop, infected individuals are urged to isolate at home, avoid public spaces and work, and contact a healthcare provider by phone before visiting a facility, informing them of potential measles exposure and symptoms.
The MMR vaccine, administered in two doses, is identified as the most effective defense against measles and its complications. California has experienced three localized measles outbreaks in 2026, all of which have concluded, according to state health data.
