Brits heading to one of the world’s biggest theme parks this summer have been urged to check their vaccination status
Brits planning a visit to one of the world’s biggest theme parks have been put on high alert after a visitor with measles spent 11 hours there.
Health authorities in Los Angeles have issued an urgent warning after confirming that an infected person visited Universal Studios, Hollywood, on Sunday, July 26, between 10am and 9pm.
The person, whose identity has not been disclosed, was contagious throughout their time at the attraction, prompting officials to caution that thousands of visitors may have been exposed to the virus.
Officials from the Los Angeles County Department of Public Health are now working to trace and notify anyone who may have come into contact with the infected visitor. Universal Studios Hollywood attracts around 9.6 million visitors every year – equivalent to roughly 26,000 people a day – making it one of California’s busiest tourist destinations and a favourite for British holidaymakers.
Measles is widely considered to be the most contagious disease on the planet, with the virus capable of infecting up to nine in 10 unvaccinated individuals who are exposed to it.
It is transmitted through tiny droplets released when an infected person coughs or sneezes, and the virus can linger in the air for up to two hours after the carrier has left an area.
Dr Muntu Davis, Los Angeles County Public Health Officer, urged anyone who visited the park on that day to ensure they are fully protected against the illness. “With summer travel underway, the risk of exposure to infectious diseases may increase,” he said.
“We urge everyone to confirm their immunity and get the MMR vaccine if needed, especially before travelling and attending crowded events.”
Health authorities confirmed that the Measles, Mumps and Rubella (MMR) vaccine remains the most effective defence against infection, cutting the chances of contracting measles by around 97% following two doses.
Initial symptoms include a high temperature, cough, runny nose and red, watery eyes, followed several days later by the illness’s distinctive red rash, which typically begins on the face before spreading across the body.
The virus can trigger serious complications, particularly in babies, pregnant women, those with compromised immune systems and unvaccinated individuals. In severe cases, it can lead to pneumonia, brain inflammation, hospitalisation and, in rare instances, death.
Anyone who develops symptoms after visiting the theme park has been advised to remain at home, steer clear of public spaces and contact a healthcare provider by telephone before attending a surgery or hospital, in order to prevent passing the infection on to others.
