Measles Outbreaks in Texas and New Mexico Reach Nearly 100 Cases
The measles outbreak in rural West Texas has grown to 90 cases across seven counties, with 16 people hospitalized, according to the state health department. In neighboring eastern New Mexico, the measles case count is up to nine, with no evidence of a connection to the Texas outbreak.
Where are Measles Spreading?
The West Texas cases are concentrated in Gaines County, with 57 infections, and Terry County, north of Gaines, with 20 confirmed cases. Dawson County, to the east of Gaines, has six cases, Yoakum County has four, and Lubbock, Lynn, and Ector counties each have one case.
Texas state health department data shows the majority of cases are among people younger than 18: 26 in kids younger than 4 and 51 in kids 5-17 years old. Ten adults have measles, and three cases are "pending" an age determination. The Ector County Health Department reported that its case was in a child too young to be vaccinated.
State health officials have said this outbreak is Texas’ largest in nearly 30 years. Health department spokeswoman Lara Anton said that cases have been concentrated in a "close-knit, undervaccinated" Mennonite community, especially among families who attend small private religious schools or are homeschooled.
In New Mexico, all cases are in Lea County, which borders Gaines County in Texas. The state health department has said people may have been exposed at a grocery store, an elementary school, a church, Nor-Lea Hospital, and a Walgreens in Hobbs, New Mexico.
What is Measles?
Measles is a respiratory virus that can survive in the air for up to two hours. Up to 9 out of 10 people who are susceptible will get the virus if exposed, according to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Most kids will recover from the measles if they get it, but infection can lead to dangerous complications like pneumonia, blindness, and death.
Is the Vaccine Safe?
Yes, the measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR) vaccine is safe and highly effective in preventing measles infection and severe cases of the disease. The first shot is recommended for children between 12 and 15 months old, and the second between 4 and 6 years old. The vaccine series is required for kids before entering kindergarten in public schools nationwide.
Why do Vaccination Rates Matter?
In communities with high vaccination rates – above 95% – diseases like measles have a harder time spreading through communities. This is called "herd immunity." But childhood vaccination rates have declined nationwide since the pandemic, and more parents are claiming religious or personal conscience waivers to exempt their kids from required shots.
What are Public Health Officials Doing to Stop the Spread?
Health workers are hosting regular vaccination clinics and screening efforts in Texas, as well as working with schools to educate people about the importance of vaccination and offering shots. New Mexico health officials are also hosting several vaccination clinics in Hobbs next week.
Conclusion
The measles outbreak in Texas and New Mexico highlights the importance of vaccination rates in preventing the spread of the disease. Public health officials are working to contain the outbreak, but it is crucial for communities to prioritize vaccination to protect against this highly contagious and potentially deadly disease.
FAQs
- What is the current number of measles cases in Texas and New Mexico?
- In Texas, there are 90 cases, and in New Mexico, there are nine cases.
- What is the primary age group affected by the outbreak?
- The majority of cases are among people younger than 18, with 26 in kids younger than 4 and 51 in kids 5-17 years old.
- What is the current vaccination rate in the United States?
- Childhood vaccination rates have declined nationwide since the pandemic, and more parents are claiming religious or personal conscience waivers to exempt their kids from required shots.
- Is the measles vaccine safe?
- Yes, the measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR) vaccine is safe and highly effective in preventing measles infection and severe cases of the disease.
