Now that a measles outbreak linked to Disneyland and California Adventure Park has grown to 70 cases, California public health officials are warning people who haven’t yet been vaccinated against the measles to stay away from Disney’s theme parks.
The outbreak traced back to December has spread to five states and Mexico, reports the Associated Press, with 70 confirmed cases so far (62 in California alone) and the numbers are expected to rise.
Measles is highly contagious, making those without the measles-mumps-rubella vaccine susceptible to catching it. Those people should avoid going to Disney “for the time being,” according to state epidemiologist Gil Chavez. That includes children who are too young to be immunized.
A spokeswoman for Disneyland Resorts agreed, adding that “it’s absolutely safe to visit if you’re vaccinated.”
In the meantime, park employees who may have come into contact with infected people had to show proof of vaccination or a blood test to show immunity before coming to work. Those with pending results are on paid leave, and all employees have been offered vaccinations.
People not vaccinated for measles urged to avoid Disneyland [Associated Press]
by Mary Beth Quirk via Consumerist