Measles Outbreaks in Texas and New Mexico Reach Nearly 100 Cases
The measles outbreak in rural West Texas has grown to 90 cases across seven counties, with 16 people hospitalized, according to the state health department. In neighboring eastern New Mexico, the measles case count is up to nine, with no evidence of a connection to the Texas outbreak.
Where are Measles Spreading?
The West Texas cases are concentrated in Gaines County, with 57 infections, and Terry County, north of Gaines, with 20 confirmed cases. Dawson County, to the east of Gaines, has six cases, while Yoakum County has four, and Lubbock, Lynn, and Ector counties each have one case.
The majority of cases in Texas are among people younger than 18, with 26 cases in kids under 4 and 51 in kids 5-17 years old. Ten adults have measles, and three cases are pending age determination. The Ector County Health Department reported that its case was in a child too young to be vaccinated.
What is Measles?
Measles is a highly contagious disease that can survive in the air for up to two hours. Up to 9 out of 10 people who are susceptible will get the virus if exposed, according to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Most kids will recover from measles if they get it, but infection can lead to dangerous complications like pneumonia, blindness, brain swelling, and death.
Is the Vaccine Safe?
Yes, the measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR) vaccine is safe and highly effective in preventing measles infection and severe cases of the disease. The first shot is recommended for children between 12 and 15 months old, and the second between 4 and 6 years old. The vaccine series is required for kids before entering kindergarten in public schools nationwide.
Why do Vaccination Rates Matter?
In communities with high vaccination rates – above 95% – diseases like measles have a harder time spreading through communities. This is called "herd immunity." However, childhood vaccination rates have declined nationwide since the pandemic, and more parents are claiming religious or personal conscience waivers to exempt their kids from required shots.
What are Public Health Officials Doing to Stop the Spread?
Health workers are hosting regular vaccination clinics and screening efforts in Texas, as well as working with schools to educate people about the importance of vaccination and offering shots. New Mexico health officials are also hosting several vaccination clinics in Hobbs next week.
Conclusion
Measles outbreaks in Texas and New Mexico have reached nearly 100 cases, highlighting the importance of vaccination rates and herd immunity. Public health officials are working to contain the spread by hosting vaccination clinics and educating the public about the importance of vaccination.
FAQs
- What is measles?
Measles is a highly contagious disease that can survive in the air for up to two hours. Up to 9 out of 10 people who are susceptible will get the virus if exposed. - Is the MMR vaccine safe?
Yes, the measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR) vaccine is safe and highly effective in preventing measles infection and severe cases of the disease. - Why do vaccination rates matter?
In communities with high vaccination rates – above 95% – diseases like measles have a harder time spreading through communities. This is called "herd immunity." - What is being done to stop the spread of measles?
Health workers are hosting regular vaccination clinics and screening efforts, as well as working with schools to educate people about the importance of vaccination and offering shots.
