Arizona health officials are now reporting five measles cases in the state linked to the Disneyland outbreak, one in Maricopa County and 4 in Pinal County. The Pinal County cases (confirmed today) were members of the same unvaccinated family.

Measles rash Image/CDC
Measles rash
Image/CDC

Health officials believe the cases confirmed today greatly increase the chances of continued additional cases in coming days and weeks.

In California, the total measles case has increased to 73, with 50 cases epidemiologically linked to the theme parks.

Other state affected include Utah (3), Washington (2), Colorado (1), Oregon (1) and Nebraska (1). One case was also confirmed in a infant in Mexico. That makes 64 confirmed measles cases linked to the Disney parks in Anaheim.

According to Dr. Gil Chavez, State Epidemiologist and Deputy Director, Center for Infectious Diseases, California Department of Public Health:

“Measles is highly contagious and highly preventable through vaccinations. CDPH is urging caution to individuals who are not vaccinated, especially infants under 12 months. Any place where large numbers of people congregate and there are a number of international visitors, like airports, shopping malls and tourist attractions, you may be more likely to find measles, which should be considered if you are not vaccinated. It is safe to visit these places, including the Disneyland Resort, if you are vaccinated. Therefore, CDPH recommends that anyone not already immunized against measles gets immunized at this time. Two doses of measles-containing vaccine (MMR vaccine) are more than 99 percent effective in preventing measles. If you are unsure of your vaccination status, check with your doctor to have a test to check for measles immunity or to receive vaccination.”

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