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California Urges Measles Vaccination Amid Resurgence
Health officials warn of rising cases and call for updated shots to protect communities
Mar. 14, 2026 at 1:33am
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The California Department of Public Health is urging everyone who qualifies to get an updated measles vaccine following a resurgence of cases across the nation and globe. Vaccination rates for measles have been steadily dropping both nationally and worldwide, which health officials point to as a reason more cases are being reported for a disease that had largely vanished.
Why it matters
Measles is a highly contagious airborne disease that can lead to severe complications and even death. The recent uptick in cases highlights the importance of vaccination to protect public health, especially in healthcare settings where workers and patients are at higher risk.
The details
CDPH reports 26 measles cases have been reported across nine counties so far this year. In response, a growing number of agencies are now requiring their employees to prove vaccination status, and some dialysis centers in the Bay Area are asking patients to show proof of the vaccine as well.
- So far in 2026, 26 measles cases have been reported across nine California counties.
The players
California Department of Public Health
The state's public health agency that is urging Californians to get updated measles vaccines.
Dr. Peter Chin-Hong
An infectious disease expert at the University of California San Francisco who says the measles resurgence is an "uh-oh" moment that can lead to unnecessary suffering.
Santa Clara Valley Healthcare
A healthcare system that requires all of its workers to provide proof of immunity to measles.
Bay Area Community Health
A community health organization that also mandates required vaccinations for its employees.
What they’re saying
“It is definitely an 'uh-oh' moment, not because is measles is still transmissible, which it is, but because it can cause a lot of unnecessary suffering.”
— Dr. Peter Chin-Hong, Infectious Disease Expert, University of California San Francisco
“It makes sense for people to make sure that their environment is as safe as possible.”
— Dr. Peter Chin-Hong, Infectious Disease Expert, University of California San Francisco
“I think it will be a growing trend because it makes sense for companies who want to keep their employees and patients safe.”
— Dr. Peter Chin-Hong, Infectious Disease Expert, University of California San Francisco
What’s next
The California Department of Public Health is urging all eligible residents to check their vaccine records and get updated measles shots to help stop the spread of the disease.
The takeaway
The resurgence of measles cases in California highlights the critical importance of vaccination, especially in healthcare settings where workers and patients are at higher risk. Maintaining high vaccination rates is key to protecting public health and preventing unnecessary suffering from this highly contagious disease.
