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Measles Case Linked to Panda Express in Burlingame

  //travel-leisure.news-articles.net/content/2026/ .. -case-linked-to-panda-express-in-burlingame.html
  Published in Travel and Leisure on Friday, February 27th 2026 at 17:05 GMT by East Bay Times
      Locales: California, UNITED STATES

SAN MATEO COUNTY, CA - February 27, 2026 - A confirmed case of measles linked to a recent visitor at a Panda Express in Burlingame has triggered a public health alert, underscoring a worrying trend of increasing measles cases nationwide. The San Mateo County Health Department announced today that an individual diagnosed with measles dined at the restaurant located at 1200 El Camino Real on both February 21st and February 26th. This incident isn't isolated; it's part of a broader pattern raising concerns about waning immunity and the potential for larger outbreaks.

Dr. Arun Madan, San Mateo County Health Officer, emphasized the highly contagious nature of the disease. "Measles is exceptionally infectious - far more so than, for example, the flu or COVID-19. We're actively investigating this case to pinpoint all potential exposures and provide guidance to those who may be affected. It's crucial that anyone who was present at the Panda Express during the specified dates diligently monitors for symptoms," Dr. Madan stated. Symptoms include a characteristic rash, fever, cough, runny nose, and potentially, conjunctivitis (pink eye).

While the United States officially eliminated measles in 2000, that hard-won achievement is increasingly threatened. Experts attribute the recent uptick in cases to a confluence of factors, primarily declining vaccination rates. The MMR (measles, mumps, and rubella) vaccine is remarkably effective - two doses provide approximately 97% protection - but vaccine hesitancy and reduced access to healthcare have contributed to pockets of vulnerability.

The National Picture: A Worrying Trend

The Burlingame incident reflects a national trend. Data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) shows a steady increase in measles cases over the past several years, with 2024 seeing the highest number of cases reported in over a decade. Several states have already reported outbreaks, and public health officials are bracing for potentially larger surges in 2026. The CDC reports that most cases are linked to travelers who bring measles back from countries where the disease is still common, and then spread it to unvaccinated or under-vaccinated individuals.

Beyond the immediate health risks to those infected, measles outbreaks place a significant strain on healthcare systems. Hospitals and clinics must dedicate resources to diagnosis, treatment, and contact tracing, diverting attention from other critical medical needs. Schools and childcare facilities may also experience disruptions due to outbreaks, requiring closures and further impacting communities.

Why the Decline in Vaccination Rates?

The reasons behind the decreasing MMR vaccination rates are complex. Misinformation and conspiracy theories regarding vaccine safety, spread through social media, play a significant role. These unfounded claims, despite being repeatedly debunked by scientific evidence, continue to fuel vaccine hesitancy. A 2025 study by the Pew Research Center found that online misinformation continues to be a major barrier to vaccine acceptance, particularly among younger adults.

Access to healthcare is another critical factor. Individuals in underserved communities, or those without health insurance, may face barriers to accessing vaccinations. Furthermore, logistical challenges, such as limited clinic hours or transportation difficulties, can also hinder vaccination efforts.

What Can Be Done?

Public health officials are urging individuals to check their vaccination records and ensure they are up-to-date on their MMR vaccinations. The CDC recommends that all children receive two doses of the MMR vaccine: the first between 12 and 15 months of age, and the second between 4 and 6 years of age. Adults born after 1957 who do not have documented proof of immunity should also receive two doses of the MMR vaccine.

In addition to vaccination, public health departments are emphasizing the importance of early detection and isolation of cases. Anyone experiencing measles-like symptoms should immediately contact their healthcare provider and avoid contact with others to prevent further spread.

The San Mateo County Health Department can be reached at 650-823-7100 for further guidance and information. The CDC website ([ https://www.cdc.gov/measles/index.html ]) provides comprehensive information about measles, including symptoms, prevention, and current outbreak information. Addressing this resurgence requires a concerted effort from healthcare providers, public health agencies, and the community to promote vaccination, combat misinformation, and protect vulnerable populations.