Measles is Emerging Once Again

After being declared eliminated in the U.S. in 2000, measles cases are on the rise again, with recent outbreaks reported across the country, including California. The disease spreads easily, it's airborne, and can linger for up to two hours after an infected person leaves a room. Communities with low vaccination rates are especially at risk, and those unvaccinated—including people with compromised immune systems—are most vulnerable.

As a family medicine physician, I care for patients across every stage of adult life—from young adults to seniors—and I’ve seen firsthand how vaccine-preventable diseases like measles can impact people of all ages. Measles isn’t just a childhood illness; it can cause serious complications in teens, adults, and older adults as well. These complications include:

• Pneumonia, a potentially life-threatening lung infection that can be especially dangerous for older adults and individuals with compromised immune systems.
• Ear infections, which can lead to permanent hearing loss.
• Encephalitis, or inflammation of the brain, can result in permanent brain damage, disability, and even death.

I’ve also witnessed the life-saving power of vaccines. As a family medicine physician, I’ve seen how they protect adults and older communities. Vaccination remains one of the most effective tools we have to promote public health and prevent the spread of dangerous diseases.

Why Are We Seeing Measles Again?

Since I care for patients of all ages, and I hear from all generations about misinformation about vaccines, every generation is a bit different. One of the main reasons measles is resurging is vaccine hesitancy. Many people are delaying or even refusing vaccines due to concerns they've read online or heard from others. I always encourage my patients to bring their questions to me—we can talk through concerns together and base decisions on science and compassion.

International travel is another factor. Measles remains common in many countries, and travelers can unknowingly bring the virus back. In fact, the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) reports 113 measles cases in the U.S. in the first three months of 2024 alone—more than the total for all of 2023. Many of these cases were linked to international travel and occurred in under-vaccinated communities.

Lastly, community vulnerabilities play a major role. Some communities face barriers to access, while others may lack trust in the healthcare system or have cultural or religious objections to vaccination. With my patients, I meet people where they are, listen to their concerns, and provide accurate, respectful guidance.

The Importance of the Measles, Mumps, and Rubella (MMR) Vaccine

As a family medicine doctor, one of the most important conversations I have with patients is about staying protected through routine vaccines—and the MMR vaccine is one of the best tools we have. It’s safe, effective, and protects against three potentially serious diseases: measles, mumps, and rubella.

Let’s break it down:

• Measles is highly contagious and can cause serious complications, especially in people with weakened immune systems.
• Mumps affects the salivary glands, especially the ones near your ears, causing swelling and pain. It spreads easily through infected saliva, so things like sharing drinks or coughing can pass it on.
• Rubella, also known as German measles, spreads through coughs and sneezes. It usually causes a red rash, but it can be especially dangerous for pregnant women, as it can lead to serious birth defects.

The good news? One vaccine helps prevent all three. I always encourage my patients—whether they’re college students or adults who may not remember their vaccination history—to check their records and talk to their primary care doctor if they're unsure.

Staying up to date with the MMR vaccine doesn’t just protect you—it protects everyone around you.

How You Can Protect Yourself and Your Community

• Check Your Immunization Status: Make sure you are up to date on all recommended vaccines, including the MMR vaccine. If you’re unsure, ask your healthcare provider to review your immunization records. We can help you figure out what’s missing and get you back on track.
• Get Vaccinated: If you are not fully vaccinated, schedule an appointment to get vaccinated.
  • The CDC recommends that adults who are unsure of their vaccination status can get a blood test to check for immunity or schedule a visit to get the MMR vaccine at MemorialCare. The MMR vaccine is available at MemorialCare Medical Group locations, making it convenient to access care close to home.
  • Visit MemorialCare - Immunizations to access the immunization schedule. Whether you’re looking to get caught up on vaccines or planning international travel, they offer MMR vaccinations and other important immunizations – including yellow fever, hepatitis A/B, typhoid, and more. Call (877) 696-3622 to make an appointment.
• Encourage others: Vaccine hesitancy is real and often rooted in fear or misinformation. If you’ve made the choice to vaccinate, share your story with friends, family, or community members. One conversation can make a difference.
• Support Public Health Efforts: When you get vaccinated, you’re not just protecting yourself—you’re helping safeguard people who can’t get vaccinated, like pregnant individuals and people with weakened immune systems.
• Be a Responsible Traveler: Measles is still common in many parts of the world. If you’re traveling internationally—even to developed countries—make sure you’re vaccinated well in advance. The MMR vaccine should be given at least two weeks before travel to provide full protection.

Protect Yourself and Those Around You

Measles is making a comeback, but we have the tools to stop it—starting with awareness, action, and vaccination. If you’re unsure of your immunization status, now is the time to check. Talk to your primary care provider, schedule a visit, or stop by a MemorialCare Medical Group location to get the protection you need.

The MMR vaccine is safe, effective, and widely available—and it’s one of the simplest ways to protect not just your own health, but the health of your family, friends, and community members who may be more vulnerable.

About Allen Jahroumi, M.D., family medicine, MemorialCare Medical Group – Mission Viejo

Dr. Allen Jahroumi is a board-certified family medicine physician at MemorialCare Medical Group - Mission Viejo. A Southern California native, he has a deep-rooted connection to the community he serves. Drawn to family medicine for its breadth and continuity of care, Dr. Jahroumi values building lasting relationships with his patients—helping them manage everything from anxiety and diabetes to joint pain.

Known for his thoughtful, personalized approach, he treats every patient like a friend or family member, focusing on long-term wellness, prevention, and empowering individuals to achieve their health goals.

Outside of work, Dr. Jahroumi maintains balance through daily running and by supporting his three children’s activities—living the same healthy lifestyle he encourages for his patients.

Dr. Jahroumi sees patients Monday through Friday at MemorialCare Medical Group – Mission Viejo, offering family medicine, internal medicine, sports medicine, and more. Convenient 24/7 virtual care is also available through “Get Care Now.”