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Measles case in Riverside County is the first there in 7 years
Measles spreads easily. It's one of the world's most contagious diseases.
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Natalya Maisheva
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Getty Images
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Topline:
A Riverside County resident has tested positive for measles, the first case in that county in seven years.
Why it matters: Measles is a highly contagious and dangerous disease; three out of 1,000 people infected can die. It is hard to predict who will get seriously ill.
Why now: This is the ninth recent measles case in California, with others reported in Fresno, Los Angeles, Orange, Placer, San Mateo and Tuolumne counties. Measles cases are on a sharp rise this year nationwide.
The backstory: The resident of the eastern part of Riverside County had recently traveled abroad and is recovering at home. It’s unclear if the resident was vaccinated against measles. More than 96% of Californians are estimated to be vaccinated against measles, according to the CDC.
What's next: Doctors recommend people watch for symptoms after travel. Symptoms show up 10 to 14 days after exposure and include a visible rash and a fever that lasts a couple of days. Getting vaccinated is important.
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