New Mexico Adult Dies with Measles, Cause of Death Not Yet Confirmed
Details of the Case
An adult who was infected with measles has died in New Mexico, state health officials announced Thursday, though the virus has not been confirmed as the cause.
The person who died was unvaccinated and did not seek medical care, a state health department spokesperson said in a statement. The person’s exact age and other details were not immediately released.
Link to Texas Outbreak
The person is from Lea County, just across the state line from the West Texas region where 159 measles cases have been identified and a school-age child died last week. New Mexico health officials have not linked the outbreak there to the Texas cases.
Outbreak Statistics
The person is the 10th in Lea County to have a confirmed measles infection. Seven were unvaccinated. The vaccination status of the other three is unknown. Six of the cases are in adults and the rest are in children younger than 17.
Response to the Outbreak
On Tuesday, the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention announced that they were sending a team to Texas to help local public health officials respond to the outbreak, which began in late January.
About Measles
Measles is a respiratory virus 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 CDC.
Vaccination
The measles, mumps, and rubella vaccine is safe and highly effective at preventing infection and severe cases. The first shot is recommended for children ages 12 to 15 months, and the second for ages 4 to 6 years.
Quote from Dr. Chad Smelser
“We don’t want to see New Mexicans getting sick or dying from measles,” said Dr. Chad Smelser, the deputy state epidemiologist. “The measles-mumps-rubella vaccine is the best protection against this serious disease.”
Conclusion
The death of the adult in New Mexico is a tragic reminder of the ongoing threat posed by measles. As the state and federal governments work to contain the outbreak, it is essential that individuals take steps to protect themselves and their loved ones by getting vaccinated against this preventable disease.
FAQs
* What is the cause of death in this case?
The cause of death has not been confirmed, but it is suspected to be related to measles.
* How many measles cases have been reported in New Mexico?
10 cases have been reported in Lea County.
* Are there any links between the New Mexico and Texas outbreaks?
No, there is no evidence to suggest a link between the outbreaks in New Mexico and Texas.
* Can measles be prevented?
Yes, measles can be prevented through vaccination. The measles, mumps, and rubella vaccine is safe and highly effective at preventing infection and severe cases.
