Los Angeles County Urges Measles Vaccination After Child’s Death

Los Angeles County health officials are emphasizing the critical need for measles vaccinations following the tragic death of a school-aged child attributed to complications from a measles infection. The child, who initially contracted measles during infancy before being eligible for vaccination, ultimately succumbed to subacute sclerosing panencephalitis (SSPE), a rare but fatal complication that can arise years after a measles infection.

SSPE typically develops between two to ten years after the initial measles illness, even after a patient appears to have fully recovered. It is characterized by a progressive loss of neurological function, leading to death one to three years after diagnosis. While SSPE is rare, occurring in approximately 1 in 10,000 measles cases, the risk escalates to about 1 in 600 for infants who contract the virus.

The Los Angeles County Department of Public Health stated that measles is highly contagious and can be effectively prevented through vaccination. The measles-mumps-rubella (MMR) vaccine is recommended for all individuals, with the first dose typically given between 12 to 15 months of age, followed by a second dose at four to six years. For infants aged six to eleven months, a single dose is advised before international travel.

The importance of vaccination extends beyond individual protection; it also safeguards vulnerable populations, including infants, pregnant individuals, and those with weakened immune systems. Dr. Muntu Davis, the Los Angeles County health officer, highlighted the broader community responsibility in his statement: “This case is a painful reminder of how dangerous measles can be, especially for our most vulnerable community members. Vaccination is not just about protecting yourself — it’s about protecting your family, your neighbors, and especially children who are too young to be vaccinated.”

The Department of Public Health urges residents to take several preventive steps. First, individuals should verify their immunization status by reviewing their medical records, particularly if traveling domestically or internationally to areas experiencing measles outbreaks. Those who have not previously contracted measles or received the vaccination should consult with a healthcare provider about the MMR immunization.

In addition, it is important to notify healthcare providers if exposed to measles, especially for those who are pregnant, have infants, or possess weakened immune systems. Monitoring for symptoms such as fever, cough, runny nose, red eyes, or rash is crucial. If symptoms develop, individuals are advised to stay home and contact a healthcare provider for guidance before visiting a medical facility.

Measles spreads easily through respiratory droplets released into the air when an infected person coughs, sneezes, or talks. The virus can linger in the air and on surfaces for hours, posing a risk even after the infected individual has departed. Symptoms typically include a high fever, cough, runny nose, red eyes, and a rash that begins on the face and spreads throughout the body.

As of September 9, 2025, the United States reported a total of 1,454 measles cases, predominantly linked to outbreaks in Texas, New Mexico, Kansas, and Oklahoma. Among these cases, a significant number were unvaccinated or had unknown vaccination status. Tragically, three individuals died due to acute measles-related complications this year. Los Angeles County reported its last measles case in August, with a total of eight cases involving individuals in the county while infectious.

For further information on measles and vaccination services, residents can visit the Los Angeles County Public Health website at ph.lacounty.gov/measles. Most health insurance plans cover the MMR vaccine, while uninsured or underinsured individuals may access free or low-cost vaccinations through local clinics. For assistance, individuals can call the Public Health InfoLine at 833-540-0473 or visit ph.lacounty.gov/vaccineclinics.

The message is clear: protecting against measles is a shared responsibility. Vaccination remains the most effective method to prevent the spread of this dangerous virus.