Los Angeles, California - A guest infected with measles spent 11 hours at the popular Universal Studios Hollywood theme park, leading California health authorities to warn of a possible infection risk to other visitors.

According to the Los Angeles health department, the infectious person was at the theme park on Sunday, July 26, between 10  AM and 9  PM.

Anyone who was there during that time could have been exposed to the highly contagious virus.

Measles is one of the most contagious diseases worldwide. The virus spreads through the air and can remain viable for many hours in the air or on surfaces, even after the infected person has left.

Cuba CIA makes big move to undermine Cuba's government, report reveals

Visitors to Universal Studios should, therefore, be vigilant and watch for possible symptoms. Early signs include fever, cough, runny nose, and red eyes.

Three to five days later, the characteristic rash usually appears, starting on the face and then spreading over the entire body.

"Measles spreads easily and can lead to serious complications, including pneumonia, brain swelling, and even death," said Dr. Muntu Davis, the health commissioner of Los Angeles County.

The warning comes at a time when the US is experiencing a sharp rise in measles cases amid an alarming increase in vaccine skepticism.

According to authorities, 2,371 cases had been recorded by July 31 – most among the unvaccinated or people with unknown vaccination status.

About 7% of those infected required hospitalization due to complications.