Measles outbreak prompts San Mateo County to push for increased immunization efforts
San Mateo County, California – Bay Area health officials—including those from San Mateo County—are stressing the need of immunization and increased awareness of the disease as measles cases rise around the country. This recent urgency comes in response to over 300 confirmed measles cases in the United States as of mid-March 2025, including severe outbreaks in Texas affecting primarily unvaccinated children.
Measles, known for its high contagion potential, can lead to severe health complications and fatalities The first measles-related deaths in the U.S. since 2015 occurred recently, marking a troubling development in the spread of this preventable disease.
As the most successful defense against the virus, health professionals highly support the measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR) vaccination. The recommendation is particularly pressing for families with young children aged 12 months to 3 years, who should receive one dose of the MMR vaccine, and individuals aged 4 years and older, who should have two doses.
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When an infected person sneezes, coughs, or even speaks, air particles help to transmit the measles. Usually starting with fever, coughing, and runny nose, symptoms then advance to conjunctivitis and a rash a few days later. With deaths predominantly among children under five years old and individuals over 20, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) states that almost one in five unvaccinated Americans who gets infected with measles ends up hospitalized.
“Now is good time for families to make sure they are current with their MMR vaccines, especially those with infants or who plan to travel abroad,” said San Mateo County Health Officer Dr. Kismet Baldwin-Santana. “If you have questions about vaccination and travel, check with your primary health care provider.”
Early immunization is advised for newborns between the ages of 6 and 12 months, particularly in relation to international travel or visiting areas now suffering an outbreak. Teenagers and adults who lack evidence of immunity should consider immediate vaccination. A simple blood test can determine one’s immunity status.
With a single shot offering almost 93% protection against measles and two doses raising the rate to 97%, the MMR vaccine is really effective. Those born between 1957 and 1969 should think about a second dose for best protection even though they most likely only got one.
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Because of its worldwide connectivity, the Bay Area—home of several significant international travel hubs—exposes more people to measles risk. Health experts underline the need of following CDC recommendations and reviewing travel destinations for measles outbreaks as well as of fast immunization schedules for people flying abroad.
Bay Area health officers collectively urge the community to take proactive steps in maintaining measles immunity to safeguard public health. For the most successful strategies against this avoidable disease, they advise reviewing immunization records and consulting medical professionals.
More details can be found here.
