"California has seen its highest number of annual measles cases in seven years, with at least 40 confirmed cases in 2026, surpassing 2025's total of 25."
"The spread of measles is largely occurring among unvaccinated individuals, with 95% of the first 39 cases this year involving those unvaccinated or with unknown immunization status."
"The measles vaccine, or MMR, is 97% effective after two doses, yet declining vaccination rates have created pockets of vulnerability that can lead to outbreaks."
"The latest case involved an infant from San Francisco who was too young to be vaccinated, highlighting the risks associated with low vaccination rates in communities."
In 2026, California has recorded at least 40 confirmed measles cases, surpassing the total of 25 from 2025 and marking the highest annual count since 2019. The resurgence of measles is attributed to declining vaccination rates, with many communities falling below the herd immunity threshold. Most cases this year have occurred among unvaccinated individuals, particularly children and young adults. The measles vaccine, known as MMR, is highly effective, yet pockets of vulnerability remain, increasing the risk of outbreaks.
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