Health Officials Respond to Viral Outbreak—Disney Guests Advised to Take Precautions

A rising measles outbreak in the U.S. and globally could have major implications for Disney park guests, impacting crowd levels, travel advisories, and health precautions.

Measles Outbreaks on the Rise: What Disney Park Guests Need to Know

Measles, a highly contagious virus, is making a global resurgence, and this could have significant implications for travelers, including those heading to major tourist destinations like Disneyland and Walt Disney World.

According to the World Health Organization (WHO), measles led to an estimated 107,500 deaths in 2023, with over 10.3 million reported infections. In the United States, measles cases nearly doubled in 2024 compared to the previous year, with outbreaks reported in New York City, Philadelphia, and Chicago.

For Disney park visitors, these statistics matter. Both Disneyland Resort in California and Walt Disney World in Florida attract millions of guests from all over the world. Given the close-contact nature of theme parks—long ride queues, packed entertainment venues, and enclosed attractions—highly infectious diseases like measles can spread rapidly, raising concerns for guests and travel planners alike.

Could This Impact Your Disney Vacation?

The recent rise in measles cases could potentially affect Disney park vacations in several ways:

• Increased Travel Health Advisories: With measles outbreaks becoming more common in various states and countries, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) may issue travel advisories, particularly for international guests planning trips to the U.S.
• Potential for Increased Park Precautions: If cases continue to rise, Disney parks may consider implementing additional health measures, such as increased sanitation, signage about vaccination recommendations, or advisories similar to those seen during the COVID-19 pandemic.
• Crowd Levels and Travel Plans: Some guests may reconsider their travel plans due to health concerns, potentially impacting park attendance. Historically, publicized outbreaks have led to short-term shifts in visitor patterns, though the long-term impact remains uncertain.

A Look Back: Measles and Disney’s History

This is not the first time measles has posed a concern for Disney travelers. In 2014-2015, Disneyland was the epicenter of a measles outbreak in the U.S., with nearly 150 reported cases linked to an initial exposure at the park. The outbreak prompted widespread discussion about vaccination policies, with California eventually tightening its school immunization requirements in response.

Given that Disney parks are global hubs for tourists, the risk of exposure increases as international measles cases surge. In 2024, the United Kingdom saw its highest annual measles case count since 2012, with 2,911 reported infections. In 2023, significant outbreaks occurred in India, Indonesia, Russia, Yemen, and Iraq, with the Democratic Republic of the Congo experiencing over 311,500 cases.

Experts warn that declining measles vaccination rates since the COVID-19 pandemic have contributed to the resurgence. The WHO reports that global childhood vaccination rates dropped from 86% in 2019 to 83% in 2023, leaving more people vulnerable to infection.

In the U.S., most states have fallen below the recommended 95% vaccination threshold for kindergartners—the level required to prevent outbreaks. The highly contagious nature of measles means that even a small dip in immunity rates can lead to widespread cases. Health officials emphasize that travelers, especially those visiting crowded destinations like Disney parks, should ensure their vaccinations are up to date to protect themselves and others.

What Park Visitors Can Do

If you’re planning a trip to Disneyland or Walt Disney World, here are some key steps to stay informed and protected:

1. Check Health Advisories: Before traveling, monitor CDC and WHO updates on measles outbreaks and travel recommendations.
2. Ensure Vaccinations Are Current: The measles-mumps-rubella (MMR) vaccine is highly effective, with two doses providing approximately 97% immunity.
3. Practice Good Hygiene: Regular handwashing, avoiding touching your face, and using hand sanitizer can help reduce the risk of exposure.
4. Be Aware of Symptoms: Measles symptoms include fever, cough, runny nose, red eyes, and a distinctive rash. If you or someone in your party develops symptoms, seek medical attention and avoid crowded areas.

Will Measles Impact Disney Park’s 2024-2025 Attendance Trends?

While it’s too early to predict long-term effects, Disney parks have historically rebounded from health crises quickly. Following the COVID-19 pandemic, pent-up demand led to record-breaking attendance levels. However, if measles outbreaks continue to escalate, it’s possible that some travelers, particularly families with young children, may delay or reconsider their trips.

Disney’s ability to manage health risks while maintaining an enjoyable guest experience will be crucial. The company has previously demonstrated adaptability in responding to health concerns, and any future developments related to measles precautions will likely be communicated through official Disney channels.

As measles cases rise worldwide, travelers—including Disney park guests—should remain vigilant. While there’s no immediate cause for alarm, understanding the risks, staying up to date on vaccinations, and following health recommendations will help ensure a safe and magical vacation experience.