CDPH Logo Measles, a highly infectious disease may typically result in fever, runny nose, cough, sore eyes and a red rash all over the body. As many as one out of every 20 children with measles supposedly develops pneumonia. A recent report from the Center for Infectious Diseases at the California Department of Public Health claims that cases of measles are increasing significantly across the state of California.

This outbreak of measles has occurred probably because of international travel or exposure to others who have recently traveled to Europe, Asia and Africa. These countries allegedly have outbreaks of this highly contagious disease. Ever since April a total of 7 new cases of measles have been reported in California. So the statewide total for this year may be 13 incidences of the disease. In the previous year, 27 cases had been registered by this state.

“California, like the rest of the nation and, indeed, the world, is experiencing an increase in measles cases that is entirely preventable with immunization,” remarked Dr. Gilberto Chávez, deputy director of the Center for Infectious Diseases at the California Department of Public Health. “Anyone who will be traveling or is expecting contact with recent international travelers should confirm that their vaccinations are up-to-date.”

From the cases revealed this year, three probably occurred in Mendocino County and two in Santa Clara County. Single cases have been purportedly emerged from Alameda, Orange, Sacramento, San Benito, San Diego, San Mateo, Sonoma and Stanislaus counties. Almost all the affected individuals apparently traveled to Europe, Asia or Africa, or had contact with international travelers. Outbreaks of measles are currently taking place in many European countries, India as well as the Philippines.

Around 9,000 measles cases appeared in France within the last six months, including fatal cases and cases with neurological complications. It was suggested that parents consult their health care provider to ensure infants and children are properly immunized. Measles vaccination supposedly begins at 12 to 15 months of age, infants 6 months or older.

Scientists mention that travelers who develop symptoms of measles have to call their healthcare provider before going to a healthcare facility so that appropriate steps can be taken to protect other patients from measles.