Measles Outbreak Linked To Disney Theme Park Grows To 26

(RTTNews) - California health officials confirmed seven more cases of measles in people who visited Disney theme parks in California last month, taking the total number of infected people to 26.

The state has reported a total to 22 cases in the state. In addition, two cases have been reported in Utah and one case each in Washington and Colorado, the health department said.

All confirmed and suspect cases of measles patients have reported visiting Disneyland or Disney California Adventure Park in Orange County, California sometime between December 15 and December 20, 2014.

It is likely that a person infected with measles was at one of the theme parks on these dates. Measles typically begins with fever, cough, runny nose and red eyes and within a few days a red rash appears, usually first on the face and then spreads downward to the rest of the body. Measles is a highly infectious, airborne disease.

"If you have symptoms, and believe you may have been exposed, please contact your health care provider," said Dr. Ron Chapman, CDPH director and state health officer. "The best way to prevent measles and its spread is to get vaccinated."