5 Disney theme park employees diagnosed with measles

ANAHEIM, Calif. (KABC) -- At least five Disney theme park employees in California have been diagnosed with the measles, officials said Tuesday. The workers are the latest of several dozen cases reported in Orange County in the last few weeks.

The number of infected continues to grow and spread. There are now measles cases in at least four states and Mexico in the outbreak linked to December visits to the theme parks.

List of potential exposure locations and times

Many leaving Disneyland Tuesday night knew of the recent measles outbreak traced to the park, but didn't know five employees are now among the infected. Nevertheless, most people said it wouldn't have stopped them from visiting.

"I'm not too worried only because of the immunization, but I would have liked to have known about them," said Scott Hughs of Walnut Creek.

Disney officials say three of the five cast members infected have been cleared to return to work. The company says it took immediate action with employees after learning of the exposure.

Dr. Pamela Hymel, the chief medical officer for Walt Disney Parks and Resorts, released the following statement: "As soon as the OC Health Care Agency notified us on January 7, we immediately began to communicate to our Cast to raise awareness. In an abundance of caution, also offered vaccinations and immunity tests... Cast members who may have come in contact with those who were positive are being tested for the virus. While awaiting results, they have been put on paid leave until medically cleared."

A few miles away at Huntington Beach High School, 24 unvaccinated students were sent home Tuesday and asked to remain home until Jan. 29 after a classmate was confirmed to have the disease. Parents were asked to monitor their kids for symptoms, which include fever and a blotchy body rash.

In Orange County alone, there are 16 confirmed cases of measles, a health official said. L.A. County health officials have confirmed six cases of the measles, and that does not include the cases in Long Beach and Pasadena.

For more information about measles, visit publichealth.lacounty.gov/ip/DiseaseSpecific/Measles.htm.