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Disneyland-Linked Measles Outbreak Nearly Over

LOS ANGELES (AP) — A measles outbreak that began at Disneyland in December is waning.

California health officials say the outbreak will be considered over in the state on Friday if there aren't new cases.

The outbreak reignited debate about vaccinations. Many of those infected were not immunized.

Infections spread beyond California to several other states and countries.

The highly contagious disease was declared eliminated from the U.S., but travelers can still bring in the virus from abroad.

The outbreak began when 40 people became exposed to measles while visiting Disney theme parks in Anaheim. The illness spread to the community. In all, 131 people in California were infected.

A measles outbreak is considered over when 42 days — or two incubation periods — have passed since the last onset of the rash.

(Copyright 2015 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.)

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