Growing Measles Outbreak in Texas: What You Need to Know

TEXAS – Cases of measles are on the rise across Texas, with the Department of State Health Services reporting a notable increase in recent days. The most significant concentration of cases appears to be in West Texas.

Current Situation

On the latest update published, health officials have confirmed 36 additional cases of measles, with two new counties reporting instances of the virus. The total number of reported cases in Texas since the outbreak began in late January has now reached 259.

Gaines County continues to be the epicenter, accounting for 18 of the new cases, while Cochran County and Lamar County have reported six and four cases, respectively.

Impact and Statistics

Tragically, the outbreak has resulted in the death of one school-aged child related to measles complications. Furthermore, 34 individuals have been hospitalized, a rise of five new hospitalizations from earlier reports.

By the Numbers:

The breakdown of cases by county includes:

• Gaines County: 174 cases
• Lubbock County: 4 cases
• Lynn County: 2 cases
• Terry County: 36 cases
• Yoakum County: 11 cases
• Dawson County: 11 cases
• Ector County: 2 cases
• Dallam County: 6 cases
• Martin County: 3 cases
• Cochran County: 6 cases
• Lamar County: 4 cases

Additionally, a count by age shows the following distribution of cases:

• 0-4 years: 86 cases
• 5-17 years: 115 cases
• 18+ years: 46 cases
• Unknown: 12 cases

Vaccination Status of Patients

Of all confirmed cases, a striking 257 individuals were either unvaccinated or had an unknown vaccination status. Only 2 cases were confirmed as vaccinated with two or more doses of the measles vaccine. Health officials highlighted discrepancies in vaccination classifications, noting that some cases labeled as vaccinated did not meet the timing requirements for immunity development post-vaccination.

Understanding Measles

Measles is an exceptionally contagious respiratory disease that spreads through respiratory droplets or airborne transmission when an infected person coughs, sneezes, or talks. A person remains contagious from four days before the onset of the rash to four days thereafter.

Common Symptoms Include:

• High fever (possibly reaching 105°F)
• Cough
• Runny nose
• Red, watery eyes
• White spots inside the mouth (Koplik spots) appearing 2-3 days after symptoms onset
• A rash typically appearing 3-5 days after initial symptoms start

Prevention and Response

The most effective way to prevent measles is through vaccination, typically provided as part of the measles-mumps-rubella (MMR) vaccine series. Those vaccinated can still contract measles but may experience milder symptoms and reduced risk of spreading the disease.

If you suspect exposure to measles, it’s crucial to isolate oneself and contact a healthcare provider for treatment before arriving at a medical facility to prevent potential exposure to others.

Current Recommendations for Outbreak Control

• Isolate those confirmed or suspected to have measles until after the fourth day of their rash.
• Exclude unvaccinated individuals from schools and group settings for a minimum of 21 days following exposure to a measles case, as per Texas Administrative Code guidelines.

The Texas Department of State Health Services provides updates on the measles outbreak every Tuesday and Friday, keeping the public informed of new developments.