New Outbreak Alert: 5 Cases of Measles in Sacramento—Is Your Family Protected? Find Out Now!

The California Department of Public Health (CDPH) is sounding the alarm as six recent cases of measles have emerged in Placer and Sacramento counties, marking the state's third outbreak of the highly contagious disease in 2026. The uptick in cases has prompted public health officials to investigate additional suspect cases in various jurisdictions and to notify individuals who may have been exposed to the virus.

The outbreak began in late February when an unvaccinated toddler in Sacramento County contracted measles after traveling to South Carolina, where an ongoing outbreak was reported. The situation escalated when Placer County identified cases in three siblings who had direct contact with the toddler. By early March, Sacramento County reported a fifth case involving another child from the same community, who had attended an educational enrichment program where approximately 130 children may have been exposed. The following day, Placer County confirmed a sixth case in a different unvaccinated child from a separate household in the same area.

“Measles, one of the most contagious infections, can lead to severe life-long consequences including permanent brain damage and can also be fatal, especially for children,” said Dr. Erica Pan, CDPH Director and State Public Health Officer.

In response to this alarming trend, the CDPH is urging Californians to verify their vaccination status and ensure they are fully vaccinated against measles. The measles-mumps-rubella (MMR) vaccine is known to be safe and effective, providing 97 percent protection against the illness when two doses are administered. The current outbreak in South Carolina has demonstrated how quickly measles can spread within unvaccinated communities, particularly among families, homeschooled children, and religious groups with low vaccination rates.

In light of these developments, public health officials are advising those who may have been exposed to measles to follow specific guidelines:

• Check your immunity status: Individuals who are unsure of their vaccination status should consult a healthcare provider about the MMR vaccine.
• If exposure occurred less than 7 days ago: Speak with a healthcare provider about vaccination or immune globulin for prevention.
• If exposure occurred more than 7 days ago: Non-immune individuals should remain home and limit interactions for 21 days.
• Monitor for symptoms: Watch for symptoms such as fever or an unexplained rash.
• If you suspect measles: Call your medical provider before visiting a healthcare facility.

California has seen a notable rise in measles cases this year, including an earlier outbreak in Shasta County in February, which was the first since 2020. As of March 2, 2026, there have been 26 reported cases across nine counties in California, with 96 percent of those patients being unvaccinated or having an unknown vaccination status. While California maintains a vaccination coverage rate of over 95 percent among kindergarteners, the rate varies regionally, leaving some communities at risk for outbreaks.

To bolster community immunity against measles and other preventable diseases, the CDPH, along with the West Coast Health Alliance, has endorsed the 2026 American Academy of Pediatrics Recommended Child and Adolescent Immunization Schedule. This ensures that all Californians have access to evidence-based vaccination guidance.

Travelers are particularly encouraged to ensure they are up to date on all vaccinations, especially before international travel or attending large events where exposure risks may be heightened. For those traveling to regions in the U.S. currently experiencing outbreaks, it is advisable to consult with a healthcare provider regarding vaccination recommendations.

Families are reminded to check their vaccination status through the California Digital Vaccine Record and can schedule vaccine appointments via MyTurn.ca.gov or by contacting their local pharmacy or healthcare provider. Most health insurance plans, including Medi-Cal, typically cover the cost of MMR vaccines.

About Measles

Measles is a highly contagious viral disease that poses significant health risks, particularly for unvaccinated individuals, young children, and pregnant women. It has a remarkable transmission rate, with approximately 90 percent of unvaccinated individuals exposed contracting the disease. Symptoms typically begin with a fever, followed by a cough, runny nose, conjunctivitis, and a distinctive rash. Those infected can spread the virus from four days before to four days after the onset of the rash. In 2025, 11 percent of reported measles cases in the U.S. resulted in hospitalization.

Despite the elimination of measles in the United States in 2000, global outbreaks continue, particularly in regions such as Africa, Asia, and Europe. Current outbreaks in Canada and Mexico further underscore the need for vigilance. While California's high vaccination rates serve as a buffer against sustained transmission, communities with lower rates remain vulnerable.

For ongoing updates about measles activity in California, residents can visit the CDPH Measles web page and access the CDPH’s Measles Toolkit, which provides resources in various languages.