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County public health officials are notifying community members who may have potentially been exposed to measles at the Sharp Memorial Hospital Emergency Department on Frost St. on Wednesday, March 11, 2026.  

An unvaccinated out of state adult who later tested positive for measles visited the emergency department that day during their infectious period. During the visit the patient was evaluated for fever, but had no other symptoms suggestive of measles. 

Anyone who received care or accompanied someone at the Sharp Memorial Hospital Emergency Department between 11:22 a.m. and 4:35 p.m. is urged to contact County Public Health Services at (866) 358-2966 as soon as possible.   

County staff are working closely with Sharp Memorial Hospital to identify and notify patients and employees who may have been exposed and assess their risk of developing measles.   

No measles cases have been reported in San Diego County in 2026.  Last year, the County identified one case linked to international travel. 

As of March 16, 2026, California has reported 29 confirmed measles cases, and as of March 12, there are 1,362 confirmed cases nationwide    

“Measles is extremely contagious and can be spread easily by coughing, sneezing or simply sharing the same air space as an infected person,” said Dr. Sayone Thihalolipavan, M.D., M.P.H.., County Public Health Officer.  

Measles typically develops seven to 21 days after exposure. Early symptoms include fever, cough, runny nose and red eyes. A red rash usually appears one to four days later, beginning on the face and spreading downward.    

A person is considered contagious four days before and four days after the rash appears.  

Infants under 12 months, unvaccinated children and adults, and people with weakened immune systems are at highly risk of severe illness. 

Along with these groups, traveler heading to areas where measles is circulating may be eligible for an early or additional vaccine dose and should consult their health care provider.  

“There is no treatment for measles and vaccination is the best protection,” said Dr. Thihalolipavan. “We continue to see declining measles vaccination rates regionally, which is a concerning trend.” 

Complications from measles can be serious and include diarrhea, ear infections, pneumonia and in rare cases, encephalitis or death. Bed rest, fluids, and fever control are recommended.  

For more information about measles, other vaccine-preventable diseases and the shots that protect against them, visit the County’s  Immunization Branch online or call (866) 358-2966.