Riverside County Child Tests Positive for Measles

First case reported in the county this year as Southern California sees rise in measles cases.

Published on Feb. 9, 2026

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A child in Riverside County, California has tested positive for measles, marking the latest case in Southern California in recent weeks. The unvaccinated child is recovering at home and has no recent history of out-of-state or international travel.

Why it matters

Measles outbreaks have been on the rise in parts of California, prompting public health officials to urge vaccination and early identification of symptoms to prevent rapid disease spread, especially among vulnerable populations like young infants and those with compromised immune systems.

The details

The Riverside University Health System - Public Health reported that this is the first measles case in Riverside County for 2026. The county joins neighboring Orange, Los Angeles and San Bernardino counties in confirming measles cases in recent weeks. Public health officials recommend the Measles, Mumps and Rubella (MMR) vaccine for children, with the first dose at 12 months and a second dose between ages 4-6. Infants as young as 6 months should get the vaccine if traveling internationally.

  • The child tested positive for measles on February 9, 2026.

The players

Riverside University Health System - Public Health

The public health department for Riverside County, California that reported the measles case.

Dr. Jennifer Chevinsky

The Riverside County Public Health Officer who emphasized the importance of vaccination and early identification of measles symptoms.

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What they’re saying

“As we see growing reports of measles from our neighboring counties, the risk of measles is no longer remote. It's now also impacting us here in our own county, even among those with no recent international or out-of-state travel. The importance of timely vaccination is clear.”

— Dr. Jennifer Chevinsky, Riverside County Public Health Officer (cbsnews.com)

What’s next

Public health officials are urging residents to ensure their vaccinations are up to date and to watch for measles symptoms, especially if they have been in contact with the infected child.

The takeaway

This case highlights the continued need for vaccination against measles, especially as outbreaks spread in Southern California. Unvaccinated individuals put vulnerable populations at risk and can contribute to the resurgence of this highly contagious disease.