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County Confirms First Measles Case of 2025
San Diego County confirms first measles case of 2025. Officials warn of possible exposures at two local medical facilities.
Health officials warn of potential public exposures in San Diego County
San Diego County public health officials have confirmed the first measles case of 2025 in the region. The case involves an unimmunized teenage resident who had recently traveled overseas, prompting health authorities to issue a public exposure warning and urge residents to review their vaccination status.
According to the County of San Diego Health and Human Services Agency (HHSA), measles continues to be a rare but serious public health concern in the United States, often linked to international travel. In 2024, the county reported four measles cases, all associated with foreign travel. As of August 4, 2025, California has reported 19 confirmed cases, while the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) lists 1,359 confirmed cases nationwide.
Possible Public Exposures Identified
Officials warn that the infected teenager may have exposed others at the following times and locations:
- Scripps Clinic Torrey Pines Urgent Care, 10710 North Torrey Pines Road, La Jolla – August 6, 8:53 p.m. to August 7, 12:26 a.m.
- Rady Children’s Emergency Department, 3020 Children’s Way, 1st Floor, San Diego – August 6, 11:01 p.m. to August 7, 5:21 a.m.
County epidemiologists are collaborating with Scripps Clinic Torrey Pines Urgent Care and Rady Children’s Hospital to identify potentially exposed patients and staff, check their vaccination status, and monitor for symptoms.
“Measles is a very contagious disease that can be spread easily by coughing, sneezing, or being in the same room with an infected person,” said Dr. Ankita Kadakia, County deputy public health officer. “Anyone who was at any of the specific locations and at the dates and times listed above should watch for symptoms and call their health care provider if they show any signs of the disease.”
Symptoms and Contagion Timeline
Measles symptoms typically develop seven to 21 days after exposure. Early signs include fever, cough, runny nose, and red eyes. A distinctive red rash usually appears one to four days after the onset of these initial symptoms.
The disease is contagious for four days before and four days after the rash appears. The rash typically starts on the face and head, spreading downward to the hands and feet before fading in the same order.
Health officials stress that individuals with symptoms should call their doctor before visiting to avoid exposing others in waiting rooms or medical facilities.
Prevention and Vaccination Recommendations
“The best way to prevent measles is by getting the measles vaccine,” Dr. Kadakia emphasized. “With measles outbreaks occurring in several countries, it is very important that all international travelers get vaccinated. Infants between 6 and 12 months of age who travel should get one dose, and travelers over 12 months of age should get two doses at least four weeks apart.”
The measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR) vaccine is highly effective. Two doses provide about 97% protection against measles, while a single dose offers approximately 93% protection.
Potential Complications
While measles can affect anyone, complications are more common in children under 5 years old and adults over 20. Complications include diarrhea, ear infections, pneumonia, and, in severe cases, death. There is no specific antiviral treatment for measles. Supportive care, such as rest, fluids, and fever control, is recommended. Those with complications may require hospitalization and specialized treatment.
National and Global Context
The United States has experienced a surge in measles cases in 2025, largely due to international travel and pockets of low vaccination coverage. The World Health Organization (WHO) warns that global measles outbreaks are rising, especially in areas where immunization programs have been disrupted.
Local health authorities urge residents, especially travelers, to verify their MMR vaccination status and ensure their immunizations are up to date.
Public Health Advisory
Anyone who visited the listed locations during the identified times should:
- Monitor for measles symptoms for up to 21 days after exposure.
- Avoid public places and contact with unvaccinated individuals if symptoms develop.
- Contact a healthcare provider before visiting a clinic or hospital.
For more information about measles, vaccine-preventable diseases, and immunization resources, visit the HHSA Immunization Branch website or call (866) 358-2966.
This report is part of our continuing public health coverage. Follow Las Vegas Newspaper for the latest updates on health advisories and community safety.
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