August 4, 2026 - The Counties of Fresno, Madera, and Merced, in collaboration with the California Department of Public Health (CDPH), are actively monitoring a group of 140 agricultural workers who recently relocated from Arizona, where a measles outbreak is ongoing. These workers were exposed to measles prior to arriving in California. There is a possibility that additional exposed agricultural workers will be arriving in the next few days.

At this time, no measles cases have been identified in California in any workers transferred from Arizona. CDPH, in coordination with local health departments and the Arizona Department of Health Services, is closely tracking all workers transferred from Arizona for any signs of illness and is prepared to implement public health measures should any cases occur.

In addition, the Counties and CDPH have coordinated preparedness measures to prevent any potential spread of measles, should any of these individuals become ill. The risk to the general public remains low at this time. The Counties and CDPH will continue to provide guidance and maintain statewide readiness.

The best protection against measles is the measles-mumps-rubella (MMR) vaccine, which is both safe and highly effective. Two doses provide 97% protection against measles. In a year with increased measles cases across the U.S., local health departments urge all residents to ensure they and their loved ones are up to date on routine vaccines, including MMR. If you have questions about your vaccination status, please contact your healthcare provider.

Individuals who develop symptoms consistent with measles, including fever, cough, runny nose, red eyes, and a rash, should call their healthcare provider prior to seeking medical care so appropriate precautions can be taken to prevent additional exposures. More information on measles and the MMR vaccine is available on CDPH’s measles webpage: www.cdph.ca.gov.


credit: CDC

Source: Merced County