LA County Health Officials Urge Measles Vaccination as National Cases Surge Past 800

As measles cases surpass 800 nationwide this year with half of all states reporting infections, Los Angeles County health officials are urging Inglewood and Compton residents to ensure their vaccinations are up to date and to be aware of symptoms as spring travel season peaks.

While the main outbreak is concentrated in Texas, New Mexico, Oklahoma, and Kansas, public health experts emphasize that the highly contagious nature of measles means communities nationwide should remain vigilant, particularly in areas with lower vaccination rates.

“Even though the current outbreak is centered in other states, measles is one of the most contagious viruses we know of, and it can spread rapidly in undervaccinated communities,” said Dr. Maria Rodriguez, Director of the Inglewood Community Health Clinic. “We want our residents to be informed and protected.”

The Los Angeles County Department of Public Health confirms that while California has not seen a significant spike in cases so far, the agency is monitoring the situation closely, especially as many Southern California residents travel to affected states during spring and summer months.

Local schools in Inglewood and Compton report varying vaccination rates for the measles-mumps-rubella (MMR) vaccine, which is 97% effective after two doses. Several schools in the Inglewood Unified School District have vaccination rates above the 95% threshold needed for “herd immunity,” while others fall below that benchmark.

“Our school nurses are reviewing vaccination records and reaching out to families who may need to update their children’s immunizations,” said Superintendent Dr. James Morris of Inglewood Unified School District. “While California has strong school vaccination requirements, some students have medical exemptions, and we want to ensure everyone who can be vaccinated is protected.”

According to CDC data, only 3% of this year’s measles cases nationwide have occurred in people who received one or two doses of the MMR vaccine, highlighting the importance of vaccination in preventing the disease.

For Inglewood and Compton residents planning travel to affected states or internationally, health officials recommend checking vaccination status and getting updated if needed, especially for children.

Free and low-cost vaccination options in the area include:

– Inglewood Community Health Clinic (250 N. Grevillea Ave): Walk-in MMR vaccines available Monday-Friday, 9am-4pm
– Martin Luther King Jr. Outpatient Center (1670 E. 120th St): MMR vaccines by appointment, call (424) 338-1000
– Compton Health Center (1427 W. Compton Blvd): Extended hours for vaccinations on Thursdays until 7pm
– Centinela Valley Community Care mobile clinic at Rogers Park (400 W. Beach Ave): This Saturday, April 26, 10am-2pm

Health officials also remind residents to be aware of measles symptoms, which typically begin with high fever, cough, runny nose, and red, watery eyes. These symptoms are followed by a rash that usually appears first on the face and spreads downward to the neck, trunk, arms, and legs.

“If you or your child develop these symptoms, especially after travel, please call your healthcare provider first before visiting in person,” urged Dr. Rodriguez. “This helps prevent potentially exposing others in waiting rooms.”

The nationwide outbreak has put at least 85 people in hospitals, according to the CDC, with two deaths reported in Texas and a third under investigation in New Mexico. All fatal cases were in unvaccinated individuals.

Although measles was declared eliminated in the United States in 2000, experts warn that growing case numbers could threaten the country’s elimination status if spread continues through January 2026.

Inglewood resident and parent Maria Lopez expressed concern after hearing about the outbreak: “I checked my children’s vaccination records immediately. Their school sent home information about the outbreak, and I appreciate the community taking this seriously.”

For more information on measles prevention or vaccination options, residents can contact the Los Angeles County Department of Public Health at 211 or visit the Inglewood Community Health Clinic website.

This story draws on reporting from CNN, published April 18, 2025, with additional local information from Inglewood and Los Angeles County health officials.