Measles Outbreak Update
For the first time since the measles outbreak began in January, no new cases were reported in Friday’s update, according to the Texas Department of State Health Services.
The department, which has been releasing case numbers every Tuesday and Friday, listed 742 confirmed cases as of Tuesday and the same number on Friday.
In the past week, only four new measles cases were reported statewide.
Fewer than 10 of the confirmed cases are considered actively infectious, according to the DSHS.
Staying Informed
D-FW Public Health Alerts
Outbreak Overview
Since the outbreak began, 94 people have been hospitalized. This number reflects the cumulative number of hospitalizations and does not indicate the current number of people hospitalized.
There have been two fatalities among school-aged children who lived in the outbreak area.
Both children were not vaccinated and had no known underlying health conditions.
Affected Areas
DSHS has identified several counties with ongoing measles transmission, including Cochran, Dawson, Gaines, Lamar, Lubbock, Terry, and Yoakum.
Gaines County leads the outbreak with 411 cases since January. Additionally, there are 33 cases in the state not associated with the West Texas outbreak, including two cases in Denton County and four in Tarrant County, according to health officials.
Understanding Measles and the Vaccine
The vaccine is highly effective, providing 97% protection against measles. Measles is a highly contagious virus and can spread rapidly among those not vaccinated.
Health experts advise that children receive the first dose of the vaccine between 12 and 15 months of age, followed by a second dose between 4 and 6 years old.
The vaccine is not recommended for people who are pregnant or have compromised immune systems.
Related Information
Related: Measles outbreak: How you can positively identify its symptoms
Related: Texas measles outbreak reaches D-FW, with linked cases in Collin and Rockwall counties
Conclusion
The measles outbreak in Texas has been a significant concern, with 742 confirmed cases and two fatalities. However, with the vaccine being highly effective and the number of new cases decreasing, there is hope that the outbreak can be brought under control. It is essential for individuals to stay informed and take necessary precautions to prevent the spread of measles.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is measles and how is it spread?
A: Measles is a highly contagious virus that can spread rapidly among those not vaccinated. It is spread through the air when an infected person coughs or sneezes.
Q: How effective is the measles vaccine?
A: The measles vaccine is highly effective, providing 97% protection against measles.
Q: Who should get vaccinated?
A: Health experts advise that children receive the first dose of the vaccine between 12 and 15 months of age, followed by a second dose between 4 and 6 years old. The vaccine is not recommended for people who are pregnant or have compromised immune systems.
Q: What are the symptoms of measles?
A: Symptoms of measles include fever, cough, runny nose, and a rash. For more information on symptoms, visit our related article: Measles outbreak: How you can positively identify its symptoms.
