Pasadena Public Health Recommendations to Protect Against Measles

PASADENA, Calif. - The Pasadena Public Health Department (PPHD) encourages everyone not vaccinated against measles to receive the measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR) vaccine. Routine vaccination or vaccination prior to travel is key to protecting yourself and the community from measles. As of March 19, 2025, there are no confirmed reports of measles cases in Pasadena in 2025. PPHD continues to closely monitor developments and remains prepared to follow up on any exposures.

Measles is a highly contagious, serious airborne disease caused by a virus that can lead to severe complications and even death. Measles symptoms appear 7 to 14 days after contact with the virus, and common symptoms include:

• High fever (may spike to more than 104° F)
• Cough
• Runny nose
• Red, watery eyes
• Rash

Measles complications occur in up to 40% of those infected; and may include blindness, hearing loss, pneumonia, seizures, and meningitis. There are no antiviral drugs specifically approved to treat measles and treatment is supportive.

Measles can be serious in all age groups. However, there are several groups that are more likely to suffer from measles complications; including adults older than 20 years of age, children younger than 5 years of age, pregnant women, and people with weakened immune systems such as those with leukemia or an HIV infection. PPHD maintains relationships and is in contact with Pasadena public and private schools to ensure they have access to the latest information about measles prevention and protection. For more information, visit the Measles Symptoms and Complications CDC website.

Recently, the number of measles cases have increased to dangerously high levels nationwide. As of March 14, 2025, the CDC reported 301 confirmed measles cases in 14 states, including a large outbreak among primarily unvaccinated children in Texas and nearby states. At this time, there have been two deaths-the first measles deaths in the United States since 2015. In California, five confirmed measles cases have been reported as of March 18, 2025. The first case of measles in Los Angeles County was reported on March 11, 2025, in a resident that had recently traveled through Los Angeles International Airport (LAX).

"Receiving the MMR vaccine is the most effective way to prevent the spread of measles and protect the community," said Acting Health Officer, Dr. Parveen Kaur. "The recent measles outbreaks show how important it is for anyone who has not been immunized, to receive the vaccine."

One dose of the MMR vaccine is 93% effective against measles and two doses is 97% effective. Measles can be prevented if 95% or more of the community is vaccinated with two doses of the vaccine. Children should get their first MMR vaccine at 12 through 15 months old. The second dose can be given as early as 28 days after the first dose, but it is usually administered from 4 to 6 years old. Individuals who were not fully vaccinated as a young child should consult with their doctor to determine if one or two doses of the MMR vaccine are recommended. Doses should be separated at least 28 days apart. If you are uncertain about your vaccination status, reach out to your healthcare provider.

Anyone who plans to travel who is not vaccinated against measles is at increased risk of getting infected. Consult with your doctor about your vaccination status prior to travel, especially if you are travelling internationally or to an area with an active outbreak. For more information on a country's measles risk level, visit the Travelers' Health Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) website. An early dose of the MMR vaccine is recommended for children who are 6 to 11 months of age traveling internationally or to an area with an outbreak at least two weeks before departing.

After returning from your travel, monitor for signs and symptoms of measles for three weeks. If you or your child develop symptoms, immediately contact your healthcare provider and inform the health care facility about your travel and symptoms prior to entering the facility. For more information on measles prevention while traveling, visit the Planning for Travel CDC website.

Adults who were vaccinated before 1968 should consult their healthcare provider and ask about getting another MMR vaccine, since the vaccine they received at that time may no longer be effective. If you are an adult who is uncertain when or if you were vaccinated and cannot access your vaccination records, talk to your healthcare provider to see if you can receive the MMR vaccine. According to the CDC, there is no harm in getting another MMR vaccine if you have already received one.

Most health insurances cover the cost of the MMR vaccine. Insured persons should check with their doctor or local pharmacy to see what vaccines are offered. Uninsured or underinsured children and adults can access free or low-cost vaccines at clinics enrolled in the Vaccines for Children (VFC) and Vaccines for Adults (VFA) program.

Visit the Pasadena Public Health Department (1845 N. Fair Oaks Ave.) Monday and Wednesday from 8:30 to 11:30 a.m. and 1:30 to 4:30 p.m. to receive an MMR vaccine. To make an appointment, call (626) 744-6121. Walk-ins are also welcomed. For a list of clinics that offer free or low-cost immunizations for persons who are uninsured or underinsured, call 2-1-1 or visit the LACDPH clinic locations website.

Stay connected to the City of Pasadena! Visit us online at CityOfPasadena.net; follow us on Twitter, Instagram and Facebook; or call the City Service Center Monday through Friday during business hours at (626) 744-7311.