West Texas Reports Nearly 200 Measles Cases, New Mexico Sees 30 Cases as Outbreak Continues to Spread
A Historic Outbreak in West Texas
Texas state health officials announced that the number of measles cases in West Texas has reached 198, with 39 new cases reported since the outbreak began in late January. The outbreak has affected people younger than 18 and those who are unvaccinated or have an unknown vaccination status. A total of 23 people have been hospitalized so far.
New Mexico Reports 30 Cases in a Day
Across the state border from the epicenter of the outbreak in Lea County, New Mexico, the number of cases shot up to 30 in a day, according to an update on the state health department website. The agency has not been able to prove a clear connection to the Texas outbreak, but a link is suspected.
Nationwide Outbreak
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has confirmed measles cases in Alaska, California, Florida, Georgia, Kentucky, New Jersey, New York City, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, and Washington, but the Texas and New Mexico outbreaks make up the majority of the nation’s case count.
Measles Outbreak Linked to Low Vaccination Rates
The outbreak has been linked to low vaccination rates across the country, with childhood vaccination rates declining as more parents seek exemptions from public school requirements for personal or religious reasons. In Gaines County, Texas, which has the majority of cases, the kindergarten measles vaccination rate is 82%, far below the 95% needed to prevent outbreaks.
Measles: A Highly Contagious and Deadly Disease
Measles is a highly contagious and deadly disease 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. Owing to the success of the vaccine, the U.S. considered measles eliminated in 2000.
Conclusion
The measles outbreak in West Texas and New Mexico serves as a stark reminder of the importance of vaccination and the devastating consequences of low vaccination rates. As the CDC and state health officials work to contain the outbreak, it is crucial that parents and guardians prioritize the health and well-being of their children by ensuring they receive the recommended vaccinations.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is the current number of measles cases in West Texas and New Mexico?
A: West Texas has reported 198 cases, and New Mexico has reported 30 cases.
Q: Who is most affected by the outbreak?
A: Most cases are in people younger than 18 and those who are unvaccinated or have an unknown vaccination status.
Q: What is the vaccination rate in Gaines County, Texas?
A: The kindergarten measles vaccination rate in Gaines County is 82%, far below the 95% needed to prevent outbreaks.
Q: What is the best way to prevent the spread of measles?
A: The best way to prevent the spread of measles is to get vaccinated with the recommended two doses of the measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR) vaccine.
