Fifteen Measles Cases Reported in Small West Texas County with High Rate of Vaccine Exemptions
Measles Outbreak in Gaines County
Fifteen measles cases, mostly in school-aged children, have been confirmed in Gaines County, a small county in West Texas with one of the highest rates of vaccine exemptions in the state. The cases were reported to the South Plains Public Health District, and an investigation is ongoing to determine if they are connected to private religious schools in the district.
Background of the Cases
The first two cases were reported in late January, and South Plains Public Health District Director Zach Holbrooks stated that they were “two children who had seen a physician in Lubbock.” Some of the cases may be connected to private religious schools in the district, but the investigation is still ongoing.
Response to the Outbreak
To contain the outbreak, local health officials set up a drive-through vaccination clinic and are offering screening services to residents. The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends that children receive two doses of the measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR) vaccine, with the first dose given at 12 to 15 months old and the second dose between 4 to 6 years old.
Vaccine Exemptions in Texas
Texas law allows children to opt out of school vaccines for reasons of conscience, including religious beliefs. According to the Texas Department of State Health Services (DSHS), the percentage of kids with exemptions has risen over the last decade from 0.76% in 2014 to 2.32% last year. Gaines County has one of the highest rates in Texas, with nearly 14% of children from kindergarten through grade 12 having an exemption in the 2023-24 school year, which is more than five times the state average of 2.32% and beyond the national rate of 3.3%.
Measles Transmission and Prevention
Measles is a highly contagious virus that can survive in the air for up to two hours. According to the CDC, up to 9 out of 10 people who are susceptible will get the virus if exposed. The MMR vaccine is the best way to prevent measles, and the CDC recommends that children receive two doses of the vaccine to ensure immunity.
Conclusion
The recent outbreak in Gaines County highlights the importance of vaccinations in preventing the spread of measles. With vaccine exemption rates on the rise, it is crucial that parents and caregivers prioritize vaccination to protect not only their own children but also their communities.
FAQs
* What is the current vaccination rate in Gaines County?
+ According to the Texas Department of State Health Services, nearly 14% of children from kindergarten through grade 12 had an exemption in the 2023-24 school year.
* How many doses of the MMR vaccine are recommended for children?
+ The CDC recommends two doses of the MMR vaccine, with the first dose given at 12 to 15 months old and the second dose between 4 to 6 years old.
* Can measles be prevented?
+ Yes, the MMR vaccine is the best way to prevent measles. The CDC recommends that children receive two doses of the vaccine to ensure immunity.
