Los Angeles Public Health Urges Measles Vaccination After Death

The Los Angeles County Department of Public Health is emphasizing the critical importance of measles vaccination following the recent death of a school-aged resident. The child succumbed to complications from a measles infection acquired during infancy, highlighting the severe risks associated with this highly contagious virus.

The child was infected with measles before the age at which vaccination is recommended, typically between 12 and 15 months. Although the child initially recovered from the illness, they later developed subacute sclerosing panencephalitis (SSPE), a rare but fatal complication that can arise years after the initial measles infection. SSPE generally occurs two to ten years post-infection and leads to a progressive decline in neurological function, ultimately resulting in death within one to three years of diagnosis.

According to the Public Health Department, SSPE affects approximately 1 in 10,000 individuals who contract measles, but the risk escalates to 1 in 600 for those who are infected as infants. The health department reiterated that measles is preventable with a safe and effective vaccine. Residents who are not immune are urged to receive the measles-mumps-rubella (MMR) vaccine, which is the most effective safeguard against measles and its potential complications.

Children typically receive the first dose of the MMR vaccine between 12 and 15 months of age, followed by a second dose at ages four to six years. Infants aged six to eleven months should receive an early dose of the vaccine if traveling internationally or through areas experiencing outbreaks. Infants younger than six months cannot be vaccinated and rely on maternal antibodies and community immunity for protection.

Vaccination not only protects individuals but also helps shield vulnerable populations, including infants, pregnant individuals, and those with weakened immune systems. “This case is a painful reminder of how dangerous measles can be, especially for our most vulnerable community members,” said Muntu Davis, the Los Angeles County health officer. “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.”

Public Health authorities encourage residents to take the following steps:

– **Check Immunization Status**: Review medical records to confirm that all family members are protected against measles, particularly those over six months who may travel internationally or to areas with ongoing outbreaks. Individuals who have not had measles or received the vaccine should consult a healthcare provider about getting the MMR immunization.

– **Notify Healthcare Providers**: Those at higher risk, such as pregnant individuals or those with weakened immune systems, should inform their healthcare providers about any potential exposure for guidance on next steps.

– **Monitor Symptoms**: Symptoms of measles include fever, cough, runny nose, red eyes, and a rash. Individuals who develop symptoms should stay home, avoid contact with others, and contact a healthcare provider without visiting a facility in person.

Measles spreads easily through the air when an infected person breathes, coughs, or sneezes. The virus can linger in the air and on surfaces for several hours after the infected individual has left. An infected person is contagious up to four days prior to the appearance of a rash and up to four days afterward.

Common symptoms for measles include a high fever (often over 101° F), cough, runny nose, and a characteristic rash that usually begins on the face and spreads down the body. The MMR vaccine is highly effective, providing 93% protection after one dose and 97% protection after two doses. Maintaining a two-dose vaccination coverage of 95% or higher within the community is crucial to prevent the spread of measles.

As of September 9, 2023, the United States has reported a total of 1,454 measles cases this year, with many linked to outbreaks in Texas, New Mexico, Kansas, and Oklahoma. The majority of these cases involved unvaccinated individuals or those with unknown vaccination statuses. In Los Angeles County, the last reported case of measles was in August, with eight cases recorded in 2025 among individuals who were in the area while infectious.

For more information about measles and vaccination options, residents can visit ph.lacounty.gov/measles. Most health insurance plans cover the cost of the MMR and MMRV vaccines. Insured individuals should check with their healthcare provider or local pharmacy for availability, while uninsured or underinsured individuals can access low-cost vaccines through clinics participating in the Vaccines for Children and California-Vaccines for Adults programs. For a list of clinics, individuals may call the Public Health InfoLine at 833-540-0473 or visit ph.lacounty.gov/vaccineclinics.