Los Angeles County health officials warned on Wednesday that some visitors who went to Universal Studios Hollywood last month may have been exposed to the measles virus.
According to health officials, individuals who visited Universal Studios during the day and evening hours of July 26 should pay attention to any symptoms they may be experiencing, as a person carrying the measles virus was known to be present in the park during that time period.
The health department stated in a public health alert that individuals who were in the park during the specified period could potentially develop symptoms within 7 to 21 days after being exposed to the virus.
Officials mentioned that individuals who have had measles in the past or who have been vaccinated against it are usually protected, but they should still be vigilant about any potential measles symptoms. Those who have not been vaccinated or are uncertain about their vaccination status are at higher risk and should closely monitor for any symptoms. The monitoring period for symptoms extends until August 16.
The CDC stated that measles can pose a danger to anyone, particularly infants and young children. Symptoms can include high fever – with temperatures reaching as high as 104 degrees Fahrenheit (about 40 degrees Celsius) – as well as cough, runny nose, red eyes, and watery eyes. Around 2 to 3 days after the symptoms start, small white spots may appear in the mouth, followed by measles rash appearing 3 to 5 days later. The rash typically begins near the hairline on the face as flat red spots, then spreads downwards to the neck, trunk, arms, legs, and feet, accompanied by high fever. Additionally, infected individuals may experience ear infections and diarrhea.
Experts cautioned that some patients may develop severe complications such as pneumonia, encephalitis, and even life-threatening conditions that require hospitalization.
Health officials are encouraging people to get vaccinated against measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR). Children over 12 months who receive 2 doses of the MMR vaccine are considered to have complete measles immunity.
Dr. Muntu Davis, a health officer in Los Angeles County, emphasized that measles is highly contagious and can lead to severe complications, including pneumonia, swelling of the brain, and even death, urging residents to take measures to protect themselves. He highlighted that getting the MMR vaccine is the most reliable way to prevent measles.
Health officials mentioned that infants over 6 months old traveling to areas with active measles outbreaks, either domestically in the U.S. or internationally, can receive an early dose of the vaccine.
Measles cases in the United States have been rapidly spreading, with the number jumping from 285 cases in 2024 to 2,289 cases in 2025, representing a 703% increase.
Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health reported that in 2025, a measles outbreak started in January when an international traveler visited a community in Gaines County, Texas with low vaccination rates and introduced the virus. The virus subsequently spread to at least 3 other states with historically low vaccination rates, including Texas, New Mexico, and Oklahoma.
On July 24, the CDC announced that measles cases in 2021 had reached the highest level since 1991. As of July 30, 2,371 measles cases have been confirmed in the United States. Outbreaks are ongoing in central Virginia and Lancaster County, Pennsylvania.
According to CDC data, fewer measles patients have been hospitalized this year compared to previous years, and there have been no reported deaths as of late July. In contrast, in 2025, three individuals died from measles infections.