Measles Outbreak Hits Northern California County

Shasta County reports 8 confirmed cases as contact tracing continues

Published on Feb. 11, 2026

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

Public health officials in Shasta County, California have identified a total of eight measles cases, with all new patients being close contacts of the first case identified on January 30. The county is urging those who may have been exposed at several local businesses and events to come forward for testing and monitoring.

Why it matters

Measles outbreaks can spread rapidly, especially in areas with lower vaccination rates. This outbreak in Shasta County highlights the ongoing challenges public health officials face in containing the disease, which was declared eliminated in the U.S. in 2000 but has seen a resurgence in recent years.

The details

The eight measles cases in Shasta County are all linked to the first case identified on January 30. Public health officials say the new patients isolated before they became potentially contagious, and contact tracing is underway to identify others who may have been exposed at several local businesses and events between January 23-28.

  • The first measles case in Shasta County was identified on January 30, 2026.
  • The eight total cases were confirmed as of February 11, 2026.

The players

Shasta County Health and Human Services

The public health department leading the response to the measles outbreak in Shasta County.

Katie Cassidy

The Shasta County Public Health Director who thanked the community for their cooperation in managing the outbreak.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“Our public health teams want to thank the individuals affected, those who were exposed, and our community as a whole for working closely with our staff and following public health guidance. Your quick action and support have helped us manage this outbreak and continue protecting our community.”

— Katie Cassidy, Shasta County Public Health Director (cbsnews.com)

What’s next

Contact tracing is still underway in Shasta County to identify additional people who may have been exposed at the locations and times listed.

The takeaway

This measles outbreak in Shasta County serves as a reminder of the importance of vaccination and the ongoing public health challenges posed by vaccine-preventable diseases, even in areas that had previously eliminated measles.