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Measles Returns to Napa County After 14 Years

  //food-wine.news-articles.net/content/2026/01/31 .. asles-returns-to-napa-county-after-14-years.html
  Published in Food and Wine on Saturday, January 31st 2026 at 3:19 GMT by ABC7 San Francisco
      Locales: California, UNITED STATES

NAPA COUNTY, Calif. - January 31, 2026 - Napa County health officials have confirmed the first case of measles in 14 years, a development sparking concern amongst public health experts and a renewed emphasis on the importance of vaccination. The case, identified in an unvaccinated child on Tuesday, serves as a stark reminder of the enduring threat posed by this highly contagious airborne disease, particularly as vaccination rates plateau and, in some areas, decline.

The confirmed case is not an isolated incident, and reflects a growing national trend. Public health organizations have been warning about the potential for measles outbreaks for several years, citing declining immunity in communities due to factors like vaccine hesitancy and disruptions to routine vaccinations caused by the COVID-19 pandemic. While the US was declared to have eliminated measles in 2000, imported cases from international travel and localized outbreaks continue to pose a risk.

Dr. Karen Relich, Napa County's Health Officer, emphasized the severity of the situation. "Measles is highly contagious," she stated. "This case underscores the importance of vaccination to protect our community. Even brief exposure can lead to infection, and the consequences can be severe, especially for young children, pregnant women, and individuals with compromised immune systems."

Health officials are currently conducting a thorough investigation to trace the contacts of the infected child and identify any potential exposures. Those who may have been exposed are being directly contacted and offered vaccination, a crucial step in containing the spread. This proactive approach aims to prevent further cases and protect vulnerable populations.

Understanding the Risks of Measles

Measles is not simply a childhood illness. While often presenting with fever, cough, runny nose, and a characteristic rash, the disease can lead to serious complications. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) warns that measles can cause pneumonia, encephalitis (brain swelling), and even death. These complications are particularly dangerous for infants and young children.

The virus is spread through the air when an infected person coughs or sneezes. It remains airborne for extended periods, increasing the risk of transmission. A highly effective and safe vaccine has been available for decades, offering strong protection against the disease. Two doses of the measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR) vaccine are recommended for all children, with the first dose administered between 12 and 15 months of age and the second between 4 and 6 years.

National Trends and the Importance of Herd Immunity

The Napa County case mirrors a concerning national trend. Several states have reported outbreaks in recent years, highlighting the erosion of herd immunity - the protection afforded to a community when a sufficiently high percentage of the population is vaccinated. When vaccination rates fall below the threshold required for herd immunity (approximately 95% for measles), the virus can spread more easily, putting entire communities at risk.

The reasons for declining vaccination rates are complex, often stemming from misinformation and unfounded fears about vaccine safety. However, extensive scientific research has consistently demonstrated the safety and effectiveness of the MMR vaccine. The CDC and the World Health Organization (WHO) continue to advocate for widespread vaccination as the most effective means of preventing measles and protecting public health.

What Napa County Residents Can Do

Napa County health officials urge all residents to take the following steps:

• Check your vaccination status: Ensure that you and your family members are up-to-date on your MMR vaccinations. Contact your healthcare provider or local health department to review your vaccination records.
• Seek vaccination if needed: If you are unsure of your vaccination status or have not received the recommended two doses of the MMR vaccine, schedule an appointment to get vaccinated.
• Be vigilant for symptoms: Be aware of the symptoms of measles and seek medical attention immediately if you or a family member develops a fever, cough, runny nose, and rash.
• Stay informed: Stay updated on the latest information about measles outbreaks and vaccination recommendations from reliable sources such as the CDC, WHO, and Napa County Public Health.

The re-emergence of measles in Napa County serves as a critical reminder that infectious diseases remain a persistent threat. Proactive vaccination is not only a personal health decision but a collective responsibility to protect the health and well-being of the entire community.