California Sees Surge in Measles Cases, Health Officials Urge Vaccination

Ventura County at risk due to high volume of commuters and visitors from affected areas

Feb. 26, 2026 at 8:03pm

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With measles cases surging across California and neighboring counties reporting new infections, Ventura County Public Health officials are encouraging residents to check their immunization records and get vaccinated against the highly contagious disease. The state has recorded 17 measles cases so far this year, prompting a statewide alert and warnings about the risk of local transmission, especially in areas like Ventura County that see high volumes of commuters and visitors from affected regions.

Why it matters

Measles is a serious disease that can lead to hospitalization and life-threatening complications. The rise in cases is being driven by vaccine hesitancy and declining participation in routine childhood immunization schedules, which is eroding the 'herd immunity' that protects vulnerable populations like infants and the immunocompromised. Ventura County's position at the northern end of the Southern California travel corridor makes it particularly susceptible to the spread of measles from neighboring counties with active outbreaks.

The details

California has reported 17 measles cases so far in 2026, prompting a statewide alert from the California Department of Public Health. Ventura County has not had a reported measles case since 2017 and has a routine vaccination rate around 95%, but its proximity to Los Angeles and San Diego counties - which have confirmed 4 and an unspecified number of cases respectively this year - creates a significant risk of transmission due to the high volume of commuters and visitors traveling between the regions.

  • As of February 20, 2026, Los Angeles County has confirmed 4 measles cases this year.
  • On January 31, 2026, the Orange County health care agency issued a public warning about a confirmed measles case in a traveler who exposed countless guests while visiting Disneyland three days earlier.

The players

Dr. Erica Pan

State public health officer who encouraged families to ensure everyone is up to date on their MMR vaccine.

Dr. Uldine Castel

Ventura County's health officer who emphasized that measles is a serious disease that can lead to hospitalization and life-threatening complications, and that vaccination is the most effective way to protect oneself and one's family.

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What they’re saying

“As a pediatrician and parent, I encourage families to make sure everyone gets up to date on their MMR vaccine, if they haven't already.”

— Dr. Erica Pan, State public health officer (California Department of Public Health)

“Measles is a serious disease that can lead to hospitalization and, in some cases, life-threatening complications. The most effective way to protect yourself and your family is through vaccination.”

— Dr. Uldine Castel, Ventura County health officer (Ventura County Board of Supervisors presentation)

What’s next

The judge in the case will decide on Tuesday whether or not to allow Walker Reed Quinn out on bail.

The takeaway

This case highlights growing concerns in the community about repeat offenders released on bail, raising questions about bail reform, public safety on SF streets, and if any special laws to govern autonomous vehicles in residential and commercial areas.