The Long Beach Department of Health and Human Services is encouraging residents to take preventative measures following a recent rise in measles cases throughout California. 

Measles is a highly contagious virus, able to spread through the air through coughing, sneezing or being in a room with an infected person, even up to one hour after they have left the area. Symptoms may include a high fever, cough, runny nose, red and watery eyes, and a rash that typically begins on the face and spreads downward, according to Long Beach Health and Human Services. 

Though most people recover within two weeks, measles can lead to serious complications, such as pneumonia, brain swelling (encephalitis) or death, with those most at risk including infants, pregnant people and people with weakened immune systems. Since there is no specific treatment for measles, care focuses on relieving symptoms and preventing complications.

So far this year, 17 measles cases have been confirmed in California, including three cases in Los Angeles County and two cases in Orange County. As of Feb. 12, there are no reported measles cases in Long Beach. 

California had 25 confirmed measles throughout all of 2025, following years with 15 cases in 2024 and four cases in 2023. Nationwide, measles cases reached a 34-year high in 2025. 

As expressed by the Long Beach Health and Human Services, vaccination is the most effective way to prevent measles infections and bolster community health. The measles-mumps-rubella (MMR) vaccine is a safe and highly effective prevention measure, with two doses providing about 97% effectiveness and one dose giving approximately 93% protection.

Vials of the COVID-19 vaccine from Moderna and patient information cards at the Long Beach Convention Center vaccination SuperSite on Jan. 21, 2021. (Richard H. Grant | Signal Tribune)

Long Beach Health and Human Services has made the following recommendations:

Children should receive the first dose of the MMR vaccine at 12-15 months old and the second at 4-6 years old.

Anyone born after 1957 who has not been vaccinated, or is unsure of their status, should receive the MMR vaccine

Before international travel:

Babies 6-11 months of age should receive one dose of MMR vaccine.

Everyone 12 months and older are up to date with two doses of MMR vaccine. If not up to date, they should receive two doses at least 28 days apart.

MMR vaccines are available through healthcare providers and pharmacies, and most insurance plans cover the vaccine. Local families with children who are uninsured or on Medi-Cal can call 562-570-7912 for low-cost vaccination services through the City’s Immunization Clinic. Uninsured or underinsured residents can also access free or low-cost vaccination through state programs via myturn.ca.gov. 

Anyone experiencing symptoms of measles are urged to call a healthcare provider before visiting in person to help prevent potential spread.

Schools and childcare providers are encouraged to:

Ensure student vaccination records are current

Report any suspected measles cases to Long Beach Health and Human Services’ Communicable Disease Surveillance and Control line immediately at 562-570-4302.

Parents can check their child’s immunization status through California’s Vaccine Record Site, however not all records may be listed. Parents are advised to check with their child’s pediatrician to confirm their vaccination status.

To learn more about local measles-related resources, visit longbeach.gov/measles or call the Communicable Disease Surveillance and Control line at 562-570-4302.