A confirmed measles case linked to a visit to Disneyland Resort has health authorities on alert in Southern California, marking the first time the highly contagious virus has been detected at the park since 2015. The infected person, an international traveler, visited several popular locations at the resort and Los Angeles International Airport while contagious, prompting public health warnings for anyone who may have been exposed.
Officials say the individual arrived at Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) and subsequently spent time at Goofy’s Kitchen and both Disneyland Park and Disney California Adventure Park on January 28, possibly exposing thousands of visitors.
We are now facing the largest measles outbreak since the disease was eliminated from the United States over a quarter-century ago.
The science is clear: vaccines are the best way to protect against measles. The NIH Director admits it. Why won’t RFK, Jr.? pic.twitter.com/XDmelNGDMK
— Sen. Bernie Sanders (@SenSanders) February 3, 2026
Disneyland Measles Outbreak 2026: Locations and Times of Possible Measles Exposure
Public health agencies have outlined specific places and time windows where exposure could have occurred:
- Goofy’s Kitchen (Disneyland Hotel): 10:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. on Jan. 28
- Disneyland Park & Disney California Adventure Park: 12:30 p.m. until park closing on the same day
- Tom Bradley International Terminal at LAX: late-night arrival window reported by officials
Anyone who was at these locations during those hours may begin experiencing measles symptoms within 7 to 21 days after exposure, and should monitor their health accordingly.
Disneyland Measles Outbreak: What Health Officials Are Urging Visitors to Do
Measles spreads easily through the air when an infected person coughs, sneezes, or breathes, and can linger in indoor spaces even after they leave.
Local authorities are advising anyone who may have been exposed to:
- Check their vaccination status, especially for the measles-mumps-rubella (MMR) vaccine
- Watch for symptoms such as fever, cough, runny nose, red eyes, or rash
- Contact a healthcare provider immediately if symptoms appear or if they recently been exposed
- Consider post-exposure preventative treatment if exposure was within the past seven days
Vaccination remains the most effective protection against measles, and getting the full two-dose MMR series significantly lowers the risk of infection.
Disneyland Measles Outbreak 2026: Disneyland Responds to Health Advisory
Disneyland officials confirmed they were notified of the case on January 31 and said they are cooperating with local health authorities to protect both guests and staff. “We are closely following all guidance and recommendations by local health officials to support the well-being of our guests and cast members,” said Disney Experiences Chief Medical Officer Dr. Pamela Hymel in a statement shared with news outlets.
Disneyland has not reported additional cases at this time, but continues to work with health agencies on contact tracing and informing potentially exposed people.
Disneyland Measles Outbreak: Wider Measles Surge in the U.S.
The Disneyland exposure comes amid a nationwide rise in measles cases, with hundreds reported across multiple states so far this year. According to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), there have been 588 confirmed measles cases in the U.S. in 2026, including several linked to international travel.
While measles elimination status means no sustained domestic spread has occurred for over a year, experts warn that declining vaccination rates and global outbreaks could threaten that status unless vaccination coverage improves.
Disneyland Measles Outbreak 2026: National Context and Previous Disneyland Outbreak
Measles last made headlines at Disneyland during a 2014-2015 outbreak that eventually spread beyond California to multiple states and countries. That outbreak led to over 130 confirmed cases connected to the theme park and triggered policy changes aimed at improving vaccination rates.
Now, more than a decade later, this new exposure serves as a reminder of how rapidly measles can spread — especially in crowded public places like amusement parks — and how critical vaccination remains for community protection.
Disneyland Measles Outbreak: What Visitors Should Know Before Traveling
Public health officials emphasize safety precautions for those planning trips to crowded destinations like Disneyland:
- Confirm up-to-date MMR vaccination status before travel
- Consult a healthcare provider if unsure about immunity
- Monitor for any measles symptoms and seek medical advice promptly
Early action can help prevent further transmission and protect vulnerable groups, including young children and those with weakened immune systems.
As health agencies continue tracking potential exposures and advising affected individuals, visitors and residents alike are reminded to stay informed and prioritize vaccination to curb the spread of measles.
