Measles Case In Toddler Confirmed In South OC

RANCHO SANTA MARGARITA, CA — Another measles case was confirmed in Orange County Friday, this time involving a toddler, just days after reports of an infection in a young adult who had traveled internationally.

Health officials said the toddler does not appear to have been publicly exposed to the virus and had not traveled prior to becoming infected.

According to the Orange County Health Care Agency, times and locations of possible exposure to the virus occurred between 2 p.m. and 4 p.m. last Friday at the EoS Gym in Ladera Ranch and the AFC Urgent Care in Ladera Ranch between 3:30 p.m. and 6 p.m. Friday and against 5 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. Monday.

There have been 588 confirmed cases so far this year in the country, and 2,267 cases last year, which was the highest annual case count in more than three decades, according to the OCHCA.

"Anyone planning domestic or international travel — or hosting visitors — should be fully vaccinated at least two weeks beforehand," said Dr. Anissa Davis, deputy county health officer. "Adults and others who are not immune remain at risk, especially as outbreaks continue across the country and worldwide. Vaccination is the best protection."

Common symptoms of the virus are fever, cough, red-water eyes, and a rash that usually starts on the head and spread.

The virus spreads through the air and by direct contact with someone who is infected. An infection can be spreading the virus four days before the rash is noticed.