Measles alert in California after traveler visits busy spots
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Measles Alert: Exposure Reported at San Francisco Airport and San Jose Stores
Health officials have issued a warning after identifying a measles case linked to a traveler who passed through critical Bay Area locations. The individual, an adult from Santa Clara County, was infectious while moving through San Francisco International Airport’s international terminal on Thursday morning.
Later that evening, between 8 and 10 p.m., the traveler visited two San Jose stores:
- Trader Joe’s
- International Halal Market
Anyone present at these locations during these times may have been exposed to the virus.
Understanding Measles Risks
Measles spreads rapidly through airborne transmission, making it one of the most contagious diseases. Symptoms—including fever, cough, and rash—typically appear within 7 to 10 days after exposure.
High-risk groups include:
- Unvaccinated individuals (should stay home, avoid crowds, and monitor symptoms for up to 3 weeks)
- Pregnant women
- Infants under 1 year old
- People with weakened immune systems
If symptoms develop, call a healthcare provider before visiting to prevent further spread.
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California Faces Alarming Spike in Measles Cases
This year has seen the highest measles count in seven years in California. As of June 8, the state reported 49 cases—nearly double the total from all of 2025.
Key details from recent data:
- Over 80% of cases involve children under 19.
- Most affected individuals were unvaccinated.
- While the Bay Area has high vaccination rates overall, some communities remain under-vaccinated, leaving gaps in protection.
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Experts Stress Vaccination as the Best Defense
Health authorities emphasize that vaccination remains the most effective way to prevent outbreaks, even when exposures occur. Local, state, and federal teams are actively tracking contacts linked to this case.
Santa Clara County has previously issued similar warnings, highlighting that measles continues to resurface—often due to international travel or low vaccination rates in specific groups.
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Nationwide Measles Resurgence
The U.S. is experiencing a nationwide rebound in measles cases. In 2023, a major outbreak in West Texas resulted in:
- Over 750 cases
- Hundreds of hospitalizations
- Multiple deaths, primarily among unvaccinated individuals
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What Should You Do?
If you or someone you know was at the exposed locations during the specified times, take these steps: ✔ Monitor for symptoms for up to 21 days. ✔ Check vaccination records—especially for children. ✔ Contact a healthcare provider if symptoms appear. ✔ Avoid public places if unvaccinated or at high risk.
Vaccination remains the strongest shield against this preventable disease.
