SACRAMENTO — State health officials are urging Californians to check their measles vaccination status after a traveler who rode multiple Amtrak trains and thruway buses across several counties was hospitalized with the disease.
The California Department of Public Health said it is working with federal partners and local health departments to notify passengers and others who may have been exposed during the traveler’s journey, which began Sept. 10 when the individual arrived in Los Angeles on an Amtrak train from Chicago.
The traveler continued north through Bakersfield, Stockton, Oroville, Sacramento and Emeryville between Sept. 12 and 14, transferring between trains and buses at stations in each city. CDPH said anyone who was on the listed routes or present at the stations during scheduled arrival and departure times may have been exposed.
“This case, along with previous measles outbreaks in California this year, serve as reminders of the importance of vaccination,” said Dr. Rita Nguyen, assistant state public health officer. “Measles is one of the most contagious infections that can lead to severe life-long consequences including permanent brain damage and can also be fatal, especially for children.”
Nguyen said the measles-mumps-rubella vaccine is safe and provides long-lasting protection, helping shield both families and people who are too young to be fully vaccinated.
As of Sept. 14, California has reported 59 measles cases in 13 counties. CDPH said 94% of patients were unvaccinated or had unknown vaccination status. While statewide immunization rates remain high, coverage varies by community, increasing the risk of transmission in areas with lower vaccination levels.
Health officials urged anyone who may have been exposed to review their immunity status. Two doses of the MMR vaccine are recommended for full protection. People who are unvaccinated and were exposed within the past seven days should contact a health care provider about receiving the vaccine or immune globulin, which is recommended for infants, pregnant people without immunity and those with weakened immune systems.
Individuals exposed between seven and 21 days ago who are not immune should stay home and avoid contact with others for 21 days, officials said. Symptoms typically appear within that same timeframe and include fever, rash, cough, runny nose and conjunctivitis. Those who suspect measles should call a medical provider before visiting a clinic to avoid exposing others.
CDPH and the West Coast Health Alliance recently endorsed the 2026 American Academy of Pediatrics immunization schedule to support statewide vaccine access. Californians can check their vaccination records through the Digital Vaccine Record system and schedule appointments through MyTurn.ca.gov or their health provider.
Measles continues to circulate globally and in parts of the United States. CDPH said travelers should ensure they are fully vaccinated before international trips or visits to large events, airports or theme parks where exposure risk may be higher.
For updated measles activity in California, visit the CDPH measles page at cdph.ca.gov/measles.
