Health Alert Issued After Measles Case Confirmed in Transit Travel

September 19, 2026 - 11:36

Public health officials have issued a warning to residents after confirming that a traveler infected with measles passed through the state earlier this month. The individual arrived in Emeryville by train and bus on Sept. 13, according to authorities, potentially exposing other passengers and bystanders to the highly contagious virus.

Measles spreads easily through the air when an infected person coughs or sneezes. The virus can linger in enclosed spaces for up to two hours, even after the infected person has left the area. Symptoms typically appear seven to 14 days after exposure and include high fever, cough, runny nose, red watery eyes, and a distinctive rash that starts on the face before spreading across the body.

Officials are urging anyone who was in the affected locations during the specified timeframe to check their vaccination status. Those who have received two doses of the measles, mumps, and rubella vaccine are generally considered protected. Unvaccinated individuals, young children, pregnant women, and people with weakened immune systems face the highest risk of serious complications, which can include pneumonia, brain swelling, and in rare cases, death.

Anyone who believes they may have been exposed should monitor for symptoms and contact a healthcare provider before visiting a clinic or emergency room, so that proper precautions can be taken to prevent further spread.