Measles Outbreak Spreads Across Three States
The measles outbreak that began in West Texas has now grown to more than 300 cases across three states.
The Texas Department of State Health Services reported Tuesday morning that Texas now has 279 confirmed measles cases from the outbreak. That number does not include at least four additional measles cases that have been reported in Texas, but which are not connected to the outbreak.
Texas’ case count also does not include cases reported in neighboring New Mexico and Oklahoma.
Neighboring States Report Cases
The New Mexico Department of Health on Friday reported 38 measles cases in two counties. The vast majority of those cases are in New Mexico’s Lea County, which directly borders Texas’ Gaines County, where the outbreak originated.
The Oklahoma State Department of Health has reported a total of four probable measles cases, which are all believed to be connected to the Texas and New Mexico outbreak.
Outbreak Spreads to New Areas
In Tuesday’s update, the Texas Department of State Health Services did not report any new counties with cases.
Last week, the state reported five measles cases in northeast Texas. Those cases, in Lamar County, were the first instance of the outbreak spreading outside of West Texas and the Panhandle.
Severity of the Outbreak
Since the outbreak began, a total of 36 people in Texas have been hospitalized. In Texas, one child, who was not vaccinated, has died. New Mexico has also reported one adult death in connection with the outbreak.
Measles is a highly contagious virus that spreads primarily among unvaccinated people. The disease has been considered eliminated in the U.S. since 2000, but there have been outbreaks across the country in communities with low vaccination rates.
Vaccination and Prevention
Of the 279 measles cases in Texas, only two were identified in people who have been vaccinated. State officials previously reported five cases among vaccinated people, but revised the number after learning that two cases were people vaccinated after exposure to the virus, and a third case was a measles vaccine reaction as opposed to a measles infection.
The remaining 277 cases in Texas were among people who were either unvaccinated or whose vaccination status is unknown, according to the state.
The two-dose measles-mumps-rubella vaccine is highly effective at preventing measles infection. It’s recommended for children beginning at about 12 months old and for all adults, with the exception of people who are pregnant or severely immunocompromised.
Local health authorities across Texas are offering the vaccine at clinics. People can also contact their doctor or pharmacy to ask about the vaccine.
Stay Informed
Conclusion
The measles outbreak in West Texas has grown to over 300 cases across three states, with the majority of cases reported in unvaccinated individuals. The outbreak highlights the importance of vaccination in preventing the spread of measles and other contagious diseases. By staying informed and taking steps to protect themselves and their communities, individuals can help prevent the spread of measles and other outbreaks.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is measles and how is it spread?
A: Measles is a highly contagious virus that spreads primarily among unvaccinated people. It is spread through respiratory droplets, such as those released when an infected person coughs or sneezes.
Q: How can I protect myself and my family from measles?
A: The best way to protect yourself and your family from measles is to get vaccinated. The two-dose measles-mumps-rubella vaccine is highly effective at preventing measles infection. You can also take steps to prevent the spread of measles by practicing good hygiene, such as washing your hands frequently and avoiding close contact with people who are sick.
Q: What are the symptoms of measles?
A: The symptoms of measles include fever, cough, runny nose, and a rash that spreads from the head and face to the rest of the body. Measles can also cause more serious complications, such as pneumonia and encephalitis.
Q: How long does it take for symptoms to appear after exposure to measles?
A: Symptoms of measles typically appear 7-14 days after exposure to the virus. However, they can appear as early as 5 days or as late as 21 days after exposure.
