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The Los Angeles County Department of Public Health has confirmed another measles case in LA County, involving a resident who recently traveled internationally.
According to Public Health, this is the fifth measles case reported by the department in 2026. The traveler arrived on Alaska Airlines flight 1354 at Tom Bradley International Airport, Terminal B, on May 14, 2026.
Individuals who were at Terminal B on May 14, 2026, from 6 a.m. to 8 a.m. may have been exposed to the measles virus.
Possible Measles Exposure at LAX
Public Health reported that the possible exposure occurred at Tom Bradley International Airport, Terminal B, on May 14 from 6 a.m. to 8 a.m.
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Passengers seated near the infected traveler are expected to be notified by their respective local health departments in coordination with the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Public Health is also working to identify any additional exposure sites in Los Angeles County.
When Symptoms May Appear
People who may have been exposed should monitor for symptoms for 7 to 21 days after exposure. For this specific exposure window, Public Health stated that the last day to monitor for symptoms is June 4, 2026.
People who have already had measles or who have received the recommended measles vaccine are likely protected, but Public Health still recommends monitoring for symptoms. People who are unimmunized or who do not know their immunization status are at higher risk.
Common Measles Symptoms
Measles is a highly contagious viral illness that spreads through the air when an infected person breathes, talks, coughs, or sneezes. The virus can remain in the air and on surfaces for hours after an infected person has left the area.
Common symptoms can include:
- Fever higher than 101°F
- Cough
- Runny nose
- Red and watery eyes
- Rash that usually appears 3 to 5 days after other symptoms
The measles rash commonly begins on the face and then spreads downward to the rest of the body.
What LA County Public Health Recommends
Public Health encourages residents to confirm their measles protection, especially before travel. The measles-mumps-rubella vaccine, also called the MMR vaccine, is the primary prevention tool used to protect against measles.
Children 12 months and older are considered fully protected against measles after receiving two doses of the MMR vaccine. Infants older than 6 months who are traveling internationally or to domestic areas with ongoing measles outbreaks may be eligible for an early dose, based on medical guidance.
People who may have been exposed and are at higher risk should contact a healthcare provider for guidance. This includes pregnant individuals, infants younger than 12 months, people with weakened immune systems, and people who are unimmunized.
Call Before Visiting a Healthcare Facility
If symptoms develop, Public Health advises people to stay home and avoid school, work, and gatherings. Anyone who may have been exposed and develops symptoms should call a healthcare provider immediately.
Public Health specifically advises people not to walk into a healthcare facility without calling first. This helps healthcare providers prepare appropriately and reduce the risk of exposing others.
Why Measles Prevention Matters
Measles can spread easily and may lead to serious complications, including pneumonia, brain swelling, and death. This is why public health agencies continue to emphasize vaccination, early symptom recognition, and fast communication with healthcare providers after possible exposure.
The CDC continues to track measles cases and outbreaks in the United States, with updated national information available through its measles surveillance resources.
Insurance
Most health insurances cover the cost of the MMR and MMRV vaccine. Insured persons should check with their doctor or local pharmacy to see what vaccines are offered. Uninsured or underinsured children and adults can access free or low-cost vaccines at clinics enrolled in the Vaccines for Children (VFC) and Vaccines for Adults (VFA) program. For a list of clinics that offer free or low-cost immunizations for persons who are uninsured or underinsured, call 2-1-1 or visit: http://publichealth.lacounty.gov/ip/clinics.htm.
This latest case is another reminder that measles remains a public health concern, especially with international travel and outbreaks occurring in multiple regions.
Measles activity has also increased nationally and internationally. According to the Los Angeles County Department of Public Health, the United States has reported 910 measles cases this year as of February 12. Public Health noted that this is the highest number of measles cases reported in January since the United States achieved measles elimination status in 2000.
Many of the reported cases are connected to ongoing outbreaks, including an outbreak in South Carolina and another involving Arizona and Utah. Public Health also reported that most cases have occurred in people who were unvaccinated or whose vaccination status was unknown. Three percent of cases required hospitalization for measles complications or isolation.
Travelers are also advised to confirm immunity before visiting areas with active measles transmission, including Mexico, where Public Health reported an ongoing outbreak with more than 10,000 cases. In 2025, Los Angeles County reported nine measles cases involving people who were in the county while infectious, including five residents and four non-residents. The last measles case in a Los Angeles County resident was reported on February 2, 2026.
This article is for health education purposes only and does not replace medical advice. Anyone who believes they may have been exposed to measles should contact a healthcare provider or follow guidance from the Los Angeles County Department of Public Health.
About The Los Angeles County Department of Public Health
The Department of Public Health is committed to promoting health equity and ensuring optimal health and well -being for all 10 million residents of Los Angeles County. Through a variety of programs, community partnerships and services, Public Health oversees environmental health, disease control, and community and family health. Nationally accredited by the Public Health Accreditation Board, the Los Angeles County Department of Public Health comprises of more than 5,000 employees and has an annual budget of $1.3 billion.
References
- Los Angeles County Department of Public Health. Public Health Confirms Measles Case in LA County. Published May 16, 2026.
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Measles Cases and Outbreaks.
- Los Angeles County Department of Public Health. Measles Information and Resources.
Medical Disclaimer: This article is for informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider with any questions about a medical condition or treatment.
