Los Angeles County is on high alert following confirmation of a measles case in a traveler who visited multiple locations over the course of three days, from the end of March into April. The Los Angeles County Department of Public Health, in collaboration with the California Department of Public Health, has identified several potential exposure sites stretching from hotel gyms to popular eateries and tourist attractions, according to an announcement made early Saturday.

Officials are urging those who visited places such as Sheraton Gateway Hotel Gym, Denny's, Universal Studios, and El Torito Mexican Restaurant during specified times to review their vaccination records. The listed locations spanned areas including Los Angeles, Universal City, Beverly Hills, Inglewood, Santa Monica, and Marina Del Rey. Anyone who may have been exposed is at risk of developing measles within a 21-day window from the exposure date, the health department warned.

Dr. Muntu Davis, Los Angeles County Health Officer, emphasized in the bulletin that "Measles is spread by air and by direct contact even before you know you have it and can lead to severe disease." He added, "Measles is highly contagious for those who are not immune to it," underscoring the importance of vaccination, particularly for young children and those with compromised immune systems. Key symptoms outlined include high fever, cough, runny nose, red and watery eyes, small white spots inside the mouth, and a characteristic face-starting rash.

For those potentially exposed, the county's health officials have set forth a clear protocol: assess immunization status, notify healthcare providers particularly if pregnant, an infant, immunocompromised, or unvaccinated, and be vigilant for signs of illness. Public Health has pledged to assist healthcare providers in managing and diagnosing care for those who develop symptoms, which can include high fever and rash.

The health department has also addressed preventive measures, stating measles can be warded off with the MMR vaccine, which is free or low-cost to uninsured or underinsured individuals through specific programs. In light of the 121 measles cases reported nationwide this year far exceeding last year's numbers and the concerning rate of hospitalizations that follow, vaccination efforts could not be more imperative.

Public Health officials are making every effort to investigate and inform, providing resources and recommendations to all Los Angeles County residents and visitors who might have crossed paths with the measles virus in recent days.