Current Situation in Collin County

On Friday, local health authorities issued a warning regarding potential exposure in Plano, noting that an individual who tested positive for measles had visited several stores recently. As of the latest reports, no new cases were documented in the Collin County update on Tuesday.

Statewide Measles Outbreak Overview

In an alarming trend, Texas health officials announced that the number of measles cases associated with a West Texas outbreak has risen to 624 since January. It’s important to note that this statistic does not encompass the recent Collin County case. Detailed updates from the Texas Department of Health and Human Services are anticipated on Friday.

Health authorities indicated that fewer than ten of the reported cases are currently believed to be “actively infectious,” as the onset of these cases occurred more than a week ago.

Recent Developments

On Tuesday, state health officials confirmed an additional 27 measles cases, with Gaines County reporting the highest number of new infections, totaling 386 cases—representing nearly 62% of all state cases. Since the beginning of the outbreak, 64 patients have been hospitalized, though the current hospitalization status has not been disclosed.

Tragically, two school-aged children have succumbed to complications from measles in Texas; both had not received vaccinations and had no known underlying medical conditions.

Other Reported Cases Across Texas

Other isolated measles cases have been documented in various counties across Texas, but officials maintain that these cases are not linked to the ongoing West Texas outbreak. Here’s a summary of reported cases outside of the outbreak center:

• Brazoria County: 1 case
• Harris County: 4 cases
• Fort Bend County: 2 cases
• Rockwall County: 2 cases
• Travis County: 1 case
• Upshur County: 15 cases

Officials are currently investigating the residency status of individuals in Upshur County to assess potential connections with the West Texas outbreak.

Understanding Measles

Measles is a highly contagious viral infection characterized by respiratory symptoms. It can spread through direct contact with infected droplets or through airborne transmission when an infected person coughs, sneezes, or breathes. The virus remains viable in the air for up to two hours post-exposure.

Symptoms typically emerge one to two weeks post-exposure, beginning with high fever, cough, runny nose, and conjunctivitis. A signature rash then appears, starting on the face and spreading downward.

Symptoms of Measles

The symptoms of measles include:

• High fever (potentially up to 105°F)
• Cough
• Runny nose
• Red and watery eyes
• Small white spots in the mouth, appearing 2-3 days post-symptom onset
• A rash, developing 3-5 days after initial symptoms, typically commencing on the face

Preventing Measles

The most effective strategy for measles prevention is vaccination with two doses of the measles-mumps-rubella (MMR) vaccine. This immunization is highly effective; however, in rare cases, vaccinated individuals may still contract measles, albeit with milder symptoms and reduced transmission risk.

What to Do If Exposed

Those who suspect they have measles or have been in contact with an infected individual should isolate themselves and consult their healthcare provider prior to any visits, to minimize the risk of spreading the virus.

Managing Outbreaks in Groups

• Individuals with confirmed or suspected measles should remain at home until at least four days after the rash appears.
• During outbreaks, those without documented immunity should be kept away from infected individuals to mitigate spread.
• According to Texas Administrative Code, unimmunized children must be excluded from schools or child care facilities for at least 21 days post-exposure to a measles case.