Measles Outbreak in Texas’ South Plains Region Reaches Record High
The Texas Department of State Health Services has reported a record-breaking outbreak of measles in the South Plains region, with 48 identified cases, mostly among children. The outbreak is the largest the state has seen in over three decades.
Origins of the Outbreak
The outbreak is believed to have originated in a Mennonite community in Gaines County, approximately 350 miles west of Dallas. The Mennonite church is not opposed to vaccination, and leaders have publicly discussed their COVID-19 vaccinations, as well as not supporting religious exemptions for COVID-19 vaccines.
Vaccination Rates
All 48 confirmed cases are among individuals who are either unvaccinated or whose vaccination status is unknown, according to the state health department.
Measles: A Highly Contagious Virus
Measles is a highly contagious virus, making it difficult to contain during an outbreak, especially in communities with low vaccination rates. "It’s very hard to keep it from spreading in a community that has low vaccination rates," said Lara Anton, a spokesperson for the state health department.
Comparison to 2013 Outbreak
The current outbreak has already surpassed the number of cases seen in a 2013 outbreak, which resulted from a person returning from a trip to Asia with the disease and spreading it to a Tarrant County megachurch. In total, Texas saw 27 measles cases in 2013, the highest yearly count in the state in two decades.
Ongoing Outbreak
The case count in the ongoing outbreak may still increase as more cases are identified in the coming days and weeks. The state health department is urging Texans to get their measles vaccination if they have not already.
Vaccine Efficacy
The two-dose vaccine regimen offers about 97% protection against the highly contagious virus. People who are not vaccinated are highly likely to contract the virus if they are exposed to it.
Prevention and Testing
Measles can live in the air and on surfaces for up to two hours after an infected person has left, meaning unvaccinated individuals can catch the illness even without being in the same room as an infected person. To prevent the spread of the virus, the state health department recommends getting vaccinated and taking precautions to avoid exposure.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is the current number of measles cases in the South Plains region?
A: As of now, there are 48 identified cases, mostly among children.
Q: Where did the outbreak originate?
A: The outbreak is believed to have originated in a Mennonite community in Gaines County.
Q: What is the vaccination rate among those affected?
A: All 48 confirmed cases are among individuals who are either unvaccinated or whose vaccination status is unknown.
Q: What is the efficacy of the vaccine?
A: The two-dose vaccine regimen offers about 97% protection against the highly contagious virus.
Q: How can I get vaccinated?
A: South Plains residents can visit the South Plains Public Health District’s clinic or see their doctor to receive a vaccination. People who have been exposed to the virus can still get vaccinated, as the vaccination can still be helpful immediately after exposure.
Q: What should I do if I have symptoms of measles?
A: If you have symptoms, contact your healthcare provider before going to an in-person health care setting to avoid spreading the virus further.
