Introduction to the Measles Outbreak
A third state is now part of the growing measles outbreak in the U.S. On Tuesday, health officials in Oklahoma reported two “probable” cases in the state that appear to be linked to the ongoing outbreak in Texas and New Mexico.
The Situation in Oklahoma
According to the Oklahoma State Department of Health, the two people developed measles symptoms after exposure to cases associated with the Texas and New Mexico outbreaks. The individuals isolated immediately after they realized they had been exposed and stayed home throughout the period they were contagious, health officials said.
The Outbreak in West Texas
The two cases come as the outbreak in West Texas continues to grow. On Tuesday, the Texas Department of State Health Services said that 223 measles cases had been confirmed in the state, up from 198 last week. The New Mexico Department of Health reported 33 cases, up from 30, in Lea County, which borders Texas. Many of the cases developed in unvaccinated children.
Understanding Measles
Measles is a highly contagious airborne disease caused by a virus that can lead to severe complications and death. “One of my concerns has been around travel,” said Katherine Wells, director of public health at the health department in Lubbock, Texas. “Communicable diseases do not know borders.” Lubbock is the city where most of the hospitalized children in the outbreak have been treated.
Prevention and Risks
Measles is one of the most contagious viruses on Earth. Unvaccinated people are most at risk for becoming infected, getting sick enough to be hospitalized and die from the virus. Measles can be prevented with two doses of an MMR vaccine. The first shot is recommended around age 1, and the second shot at the beginning of kindergarten. Two doses are about 97% effective at preventing measles.
Recent Developments
Other individual cases unrelated to the West Texas outbreak have also been reported this week, in patients in Maryland and Vermont who had traveled overseas. “Everybody’s on high alert,” Wells said. Health officials in Lubbock, Texas, held a press conference on Wednesday following confirmation of the first death related to the current measles outbreak.
Conclusion
The measles outbreak in West Texas and its spread into Oklahoma and New Mexico highlights the importance of vaccination and vigilance in preventing the spread of highly contagious diseases. As the situation continues to evolve, health officials remain on high alert, emphasizing the need for individuals to ensure they are vaccinated against measles to protect not only themselves but also their communities.
FAQs
- Q: What is measles?
- A: Measles is a highly contagious airborne disease caused by a virus that can lead to severe complications and death.
- Q: How can measles be prevented?
- A: Measles can be prevented with two doses of an MMR vaccine, which are about 97% effective at preventing measles.
- Q: Who is most at risk for becoming infected with measles?
- A: Unvaccinated people are most at risk for becoming infected, getting sick enough to be hospitalized, and dying from the virus.
- Q: Are there any recent developments in the outbreak?
- A: Yes, individual cases unrelated to the West Texas outbreak have been reported in Maryland and Vermont, involving patients who had traveled overseas.
- Q: What is the current status of the outbreak in terms of cases and affected areas?
- A: The outbreak continues to grow, with confirmed cases in Texas, New Mexico, and probable cases in Oklahoma, totaling over 250 cases as of the latest reports.
