MENDOCINO CO., 3/12/26 – Mendocino County Public Health officials on Thursday issued a health alert to residents and health care providers about increased measles activity in California and urged people to check their vaccination status.
No cases have been reported in Mendocino County, but local health officials said increased activity elsewhere in the state raises the risk of the virus spreading through travel.
“Measles is a highly infectious respiratory disease that can lead to serious health complications,” said Dr. Charles Evans, Mendocino County deputy public health officer. “With outbreaks occurring in neighboring regions, we urge residents to verify their vaccination status and ensure they are protected.”
Health officials said measles spreads easily through the air and can remain in the air or on surfaces for up to two hours after an infected person leaves an area.
According to public health, symptoms usually begin with a high fever, cough, runny nose and red, watery eyes, followed by a rash that starts on the face and spreads to the rest of the body.
People with symptoms should call their health care provider before visiting a clinic or hospital to avoid exposing others.
County officials said Mendocino County is considered a medium-risk area for measles and is among 16 California counties with kindergarten vaccination rates below the 95% level typically needed for herd immunity.
State data shows about 96% of measles cases in California this year occurred in people who were unvaccinated or whose vaccination status was unknown.
Residents can check their vaccination records through the state’s online Digital Vaccine Record portal or by contacting their health care provider.
Most insurance plans cover the measles, mumps and rubella vaccine. Residents without a provider can call Mendocino County Public Health at (707) 472-2713 to ask about free vaccinations for eligible children and to schedule an appointment.
For more information about measles and vaccines, visit https://www.cdph.ca.gov/Programs/CID/DCDC/Pages/Immunization/measles.aspx.