Measles Outbreak Reported Near Pasadena, Officials Urge Vaccination

Los Angeles and Orange County have confirmed 5 measles cases, prompting Pasadena health officials to encourage residents to check vaccination status.

Feb. 5, 2026 at 6:31am

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Measles cases have been reported in Los Angeles and Orange Counties, close to the city of Pasadena. As part of a national outbreak that has already infected 588 people in January 2026, the highest total for that month since measles was declared eliminated in the U.S. in 2000, Pasadena Public Health officials are urging residents to get vaccinated to protect themselves and the community.

Why it matters

Measles is one of the most contagious diseases, and an outbreak in the region poses a serious public health risk, especially for vulnerable populations like young children, the elderly, and those with weakened immune systems. Pasadena's independent health department allows the city to closely monitor the situation and provide tailored guidance to residents.

The details

The recent cases in LA and Orange Counties involved travelers who had recently returned from international trips or visited areas with active outbreaks. One traveler visited Disneyland while infectious, and another passed through LAX. Statewide, California has confirmed 9 measles cases in 2026, compared to 25 for all of 2025. Nationally, the CDC reported 588 confirmed cases as of January 30, outpacing the 2,267 cases reported for all of 2025.

  • As of February 3, 2026, the Pasadena Public Health Department had recorded zero measles cases among Pasadena residents this year.
  • In the past week, Los Angeles County and Orange County confirmed 5 measles cases.

The players

Pasadena Public Health Department

The city's independent health department that tracks its own case data and issues its own guidance, separate from Los Angeles County.

Manuel Carmona

Director of Public Health for the city of Pasadena.

Dr. Parveen Kaur

The city's Acting Health Officer.

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What they’re saying

“With increasing measles activity across the nation and region, I urge Pasadena residents to take steps now to protect their health and the health of their loved ones. Getting vaccinated remains the most effective way to protect yourself and prevent the spread of disease in our community.”

— Manuel Carmona, Director of Public Health (Pasadena Now)

“Receiving the measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR) vaccine is the most effective way to prevent the spread of measles and protect the community. The recent measles outbreaks show how important it is for anyone who has not been immunized, to receive the vaccine.”

— Dr. Parveen Kaur, Acting Health Officer (Pasadena Now)

What’s next

The Pasadena Public Health Department is urging residents to check their vaccination status and get the MMR shot before someone they know is exposed. The city's immunization clinic offers MMR vaccines on Mondays and Wednesdays.

The takeaway

This outbreak highlights the importance of vaccination, especially in a densely populated region like Southern California. Pasadena's independent health department allows the city to closely monitor the situation and provide tailored guidance to residents to protect the community's health.