Texas’ Measles Outbreak: What You Need to Know
Texas’ ongoing measles outbreak is now up to 90 confirmed cases, the most the state has seen in any year since 1992.
Measles has been considered eliminated in the U.S. since 2000. But as vaccination rates have dipped nationwide, states across the country have seen outbreaks.
What are the measles symptoms?
The classic measles symptoms are fever, cough, runny nose, red eyes, and a rash.
While the respiratory symptoms of measles may mimic other viruses, the rash is a telltale sign.
Measles can also lead to other complications, including pneumonia, which could require hospitalization.
Complications are more likely in young children and in pregnant women. For pregnant women, the measles can lead to a premature birth or a low birth weight.
How does the measles spread?
The measles is one of the most contagious viruses in the world.
It can live in the air and on surfaces for up to two hours after a person has left, which means that a person can catch the measles without ever being in the same room as an infected person.
The virus spreads mainly through unvaccinated people, who have an incredibly high chance of contracting the virus if they’re exposed to it.
For a community to be protected against an outbreak, 95% of people must be vaccinated.
Why is there an outbreak right now?
The measles outbreak in Texas started in Gaines County, near the New Mexico border. Health officials believe it has spread rapidly because of low vaccination rates in the community.
The vast majority of the Texans who have contracted the virus have not been vaccinated. Of the 90 cases that state health officials reported on Friday morning, 85 were in people who were either unvaccinated or whose vaccination status was unknown.
Health experts say that dipping childhood vaccination rates nationwide, which dipped lower during the COVID-19 pandemic, are making communities more vulnerable to outbreaks of vaccine-preventable illnesses.
Can I get the measles if I’m vaccinated?
The measles vaccine, typically administered in a combination with mumps and rubella vaccinations, provides strong protection against the virus.
Data shows that the two-shot regimen is 97% effective against the measles.
That means that a small percentage of people may still contract the measles even after they’ve been vaccinated, although their symptoms are likely to be milder.
Do I need to get a booster?
The measles vaccine offers long-term protection against the virus, including into adulthood. For most people, the childhood vaccine will protect them against the measles for their entire life, according to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
There are some people who were vaccinated in the 1960s who might need to be revaccinated. According to the CDC, some people who were vaccinated between 1963 and 1967 may have received an ineffective version of the vaccine.
For people who are not vaccinated, a previous measles infection also triggers long-lasting protection from reinfection. That’s why the CDC also generally considers anyone born before 1957 to be protected from the measles.
Who can get the vaccine?
The measles vaccine has been shown to be safe for nearly everyone, and the CDC recommends childhood vaccination of the measles-mumps-rubella vaccine beginning at 12 months old.
For babies who are traveling internationally, the CDC also recommends a single dose at six months old. Older children and adults can also receive the vaccination if they were not vaccinated as babies.
If you’ve been exposed to measles and you are not vaccinated, you can still get vaccinated. The vaccination can still offer some protection if you are vaccinated within 72 hours of exposure.
How do I protect myself and my family?
Health experts say vaccination is the best way to protect yourself and your family from the measles. Vaccination before exposure, or within 72 hours of exposure, can protect you from the virus.
For Gaines County residents, the South Plains Public Health District in Seminole is offering vaccination. Some other health authorities have also offered vaccination for unvaccinated residents.
Regardless of where you live, you can also contact your doctor or pharmacy to ask about vaccination.
Conclusion
The ongoing measles outbreak in Texas is a concerning trend that highlights the importance of vaccination. With 90 confirmed cases, it is essential to take action to protect ourselves and our loved ones. By understanding the symptoms, spread, and vaccination rates, we can work together to prevent the spread of this preventable disease.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What are the symptoms of measles?
A: The classic symptoms of measles are fever, cough, runny nose, red eyes, and a rash.
Q: How does the measles spread?
A: The measles can live in the air and on surfaces for up to two hours after a person has left, and spreads mainly through unvaccinated people.
Q: Who can get the vaccine?
A: The measles vaccine is recommended for nearly everyone, with the CDC recommending childhood vaccination beginning at 12 months old.
Q: Do I need a booster shot?
A: For most people, the childhood vaccine will protect them against the measles for their entire life. However, some people who were vaccinated in the 1960s may need to be revaccinated.
