Measles Outbreak in West Texas
A second unvaccinated child has died from measles complications in the West Texas measles outbreak, Lubbock hospital officials confirmed. The outbreak, which began in January, has resulted in nearly 500 confirmed cases across the state, primarily in the South Plains and Panhandle regions, according to the Texas Department of State Health Services. Of those people, 98% have been unvaccinated.
The school-aged child was hospitalized in the University Medical System in Lubbock and received treatment for complications from measles, said Aaron Davis, a spokesperson for the health system. Davis said the child was unvaccinated and had no underlying health conditions.
“On behalf of UMC Health System, we extend our thoughts and prayers to the family and loved ones of this child, during this very difficult time,” the system’s CEO Mark Funderburk said in the statement.
The Texas health department also confirmed the death and said the child died Thursday from “measles pulmonary failure.”
Understanding Measles
Measles is a highly contagious illness that spreads mostly among unvaccinated people. The two-dose measles-mumps-rubella, or MMR, vaccine is 97% effective at preventing measles infection and typically offers lifelong protection.
Dr. Peter Hotez, a professor in pediatrics and molecular virology & microbiology at Baylor College of Medicine, said both deaths from the outbreak were unnecessary. Hotez said the typical fatality rate of measles is 1 to 3 deaths per every 1,000 cases, making it likely this epidemic is significantly larger than the confirmed cases that have been reported.
Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. Visits Texas
U.S. Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. visited Texas Sunday to spend time with the families of the children who have died from measles, according to a post on X. He identified the two children as 6- and 8-year-old girls.
Kennedy said in his post that he traveled to Texas to learn more about how the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services can assist with controlling the measles outbreak and endorsed vaccination as the most effective way to prevent measles.
Measles Concerns in D-FW
Dr. Philip Huang, director of Dallas County Health and Human Services, reinforced Hotez’s point that the second measles death means the outbreak is likely larger than reported. While a confirmed case of measles hasn’t reached Dallas County, Huang said his department is working to identify vulnerable groups that could become infection hot spots.
Huang said his agency reached out to the leadership of day cares and public and private schools across the region with resources and offered to set up vaccination clinics. His agency was able to host some clinics but had to cancel others due to a loss of federal funding.
Huang said the U.S. has become “a victim of our own success.” After successful vaccination campaigns that led to the elimination of the disease, many parents are less familiar with its harmful effects, he said.
Vaccination Importance
The vaccine is recommended for nearly everyone, beginning with babies at about 12 months of age. The vaccine is not recommended for people who are pregnant or immunocompromised.
Childhood vaccination rates dipped during the pandemic, causing concern among public health experts. The Texas Legislature is poised to consider a host of vaccine bills this session, most of which would roll back existing vaccine policy.
Conclusion
The measles outbreak in West Texas is a serious concern, and it is essential that parents get their children vaccinated to prevent further deaths and hospitalizations. The vaccine is highly effective in preventing measles infection and offers lifelong protection. It is crucial that we continue to educate parents about the importance of vaccination and work to increase vaccine access in West Texas.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is measles? Measles is a highly contagious illness that spreads mostly among unvaccinated people.
Q: How effective is the measles vaccine? The two-dose measles-mumps-rubella, or MMR, vaccine is 97% effective at preventing measles infection and typically offers lifelong protection.
Q: Who should get vaccinated? The vaccine is recommended for nearly everyone, beginning with babies at about 12 months of age. The vaccine is not recommended for people who are pregnant or immunocompromised.
Q: What are the symptoms of measles? Measles symptoms include fever, cough, runny nose, and a rash that spreads from the head and neck to the rest of the body.
Q: How can I protect myself and my family from measles? The best way to protect yourself and your family from measles is to get vaccinated. It is also essential to practice good hygiene, such as washing your hands frequently and avoiding close contact with people who are sick.
