Measles Outbreak in Texas
Texas public health officials on Friday reported an additional 22 measles cases in the ongoing outbreak, for a total of 646 outbreak cases.
The state’s Department of State Health Services estimates that 1% of the total cases — or fewer than 10 cases — are actively infectious.
The department has designated 10 counties as having “ongoing measles transmission.” Those counties are Cochran, Dallam, Dawson, Gaines, Garza, Lynn, Lamar, Lubbock, Terry and Yoakum.
So far in the outbreak, a total of 64 people have been hospitalized. Two Texas children, both of them unvaccinated, have died.
Public Health Alerts
D-FW Public Health Alerts
Related: Texas has an ongoing measles outbreak. Here’s everything you need to know about the virus
Outbreak Update
The Lone Star State’s case count does not include additional outbreaks in other states. New Mexico reported 66 cases as of Friday, and Oklahoma reported 13 cases as of Friday. Across the three states, the outbreak has grown to 725 cases.
Texas’ Friday update does not include a recently reported case in Collin County, which was this year’s first instance of measles in a child in the Dallas-Fort Worth area.
It is not yet clear whether the Collin County case is connected to the West Texas outbreak. Friday’s update does not include the case in the list of outbreak cases or the list of “other” cases.
Related: Collin County student tests positive for measles, first child case reported in D-FW
What is Measles?
Measles is a highly contagious illness that can spread rapidly among unvaccinated people. The two-dose measles-mumps-rubella vaccination is 97% effective at preventing the illness.
Measles was declared eliminated in the United States in 2000, due to high vaccination rates. There have still been outbreaks since then in communities with low vaccination rates.
Vaccination and Prevention
Experts have said that the ongoing outbreak that began in West Texas may threaten the country’s elimination status.
The vaccine is recommended for nearly everyone, beginning at about 12 months of age. People who are immunocompromised or pregnant are not advised to take the vaccine.
Conclusion
The measles outbreak in Texas is a serious public health concern. With 646 cases reported so far, it is essential for individuals to take necessary precautions to prevent the spread of the disease. Vaccination is the most effective way to prevent measles, and it is crucial for everyone to get vaccinated to protect themselves and their communities.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is measles?
A: Measles is a highly contagious illness that can spread rapidly among unvaccinated people.
Q: How can I prevent measles?
A: The two-dose measles-mumps-rubella vaccination is 97% effective at preventing the illness.
Q: Who should get vaccinated?
A: The vaccine is recommended for nearly everyone, beginning at about 12 months of age. People who are immunocompromised or pregnant are not advised to take the vaccine.
Q: What are the symptoms of measles?
A: Symptoms of measles include fever, cough, runny nose, and a rash that spreads across the body.
Q: How can I protect myself and my community from measles?
A: Get vaccinated, practice good hygiene, and avoid close contact with people who have measles.
