First Confirmed Measles Case in Coachella Valley Resident

The first case of measles in seven years surfaced in Riverside County, prompting health officials to urge precautions and vigilance among residents. The patient, identified as a Coachella resident, tested positive for a measles infection is now recovering at home, according to the Riverside University Health System. The origin of the infection could not be verified, but RUHS officials said the person had recently traveled outside the United States, without naming the country. It's the ninth case of measles documented statewide this year. ``Those who travel internationally to areas with ongoing measles transmission may be at risk for exposure,'' county Public Health Officer Dr. Jennifer Chevinsky said. ``It's important to check and make sure you are up to date on your vaccines, at least two weeks prior to international travel.'' The last documented case of measles countywide occurred in 2018.