A resident of Santa Clara County diagnosed with measles potentially exposed others while dining at a restaurant in Burlingame earlier this week. On Friday, health authorities from both San Mateo County and Santa Clara County issued public notices regarding the confirmed case, which involved an adult who had recently returned from international travel. The individual, who had received vaccinations, is now isolating at home.
The exposure occurred at a Panda Express restaurant located on Burlingame Avenue, just north of El Camino Real, on Monday and Tuesday between 11:30 a.m. and 1:30 p.m. Health officials have alerted patrons who were at the restaurant during that time, particularly those who are unvaccinated, pregnant, or immunocompromised, as they may be at risk of contracting measles.
Individuals who visited the restaurant during these hours and subsequently develop symptoms, such as fever, cough, runny nose, or a rash, are advised to remain at home and contact a healthcare provider immediately. Those who remain symptom-free for more than 21 days after potential exposure are no longer considered at risk for developing the disease.
This incident marks the first confirmed case of measles in Santa Clara County since May 2025, and it is the 22nd case reported in California in 2026. Prior to this case, the last confirmed instance in Santa Clara County was in 2019. In San Mateo County, two cases of measles have been confirmed this year, alongside one case reported in 2025.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reported that the United States recorded over 2,200 measles cases last year, the highest number in three decades. Measles is known as one of the most contagious infectious diseases. While many individuals recover without complications, approximately one in five unvaccinated persons who contract measles will require hospitalization. Severe complications can lead to lung and brain infections, potentially resulting in cognitive issues, deafness, or even death.
Health experts emphasize that the measles vaccine, typically administered as part of the combination measles-mumps-rubella (MMR) vaccine, is both safe and effective. The recent increase in measles cases is attributed to declining vaccination rates.
In a prepared statement, Dr. Sarah Rudman, the Santa Clara County Public Health Director, noted, “Fortunately, our region has strong community immunity because of our very high rates of vaccination or from childhood exposure decades ago. Two shots of MMR or MMRV vaccine are the best protection against measles and can stop a measles outbreak in its tracks.”
Earlier this year, California and several other Western states announced they would reject new CDC guidelines regarding childhood vaccinations. Nonetheless, both San Mateo and Santa Clara counties continue to adhere to the existing state vaccination guidelines, which remain covered by health insurance in California.
As the situation develops, health authorities urge residents to stay informed and take necessary precautions, particularly in light of the ongoing risk associated with measles outbreaks.
