Measles Outbreak in Texas: Latest Updates

Recent updates from the Texas Department of State Health Services indicate a continuing measles outbreak in West Texas, with 22 additional cases reported. This increase has extended the total count of infections to 422 since the beginning of the year.

Recent Developments

As of Tuesday, new cases have emerged in Brown and Erath counties, marking the first infections recorded in these regions. The overall outbreak has led to 42 individuals being hospitalized, with one recent hospitalization noted in the latest update.

Among the newly reported cases, two individuals had received vaccinations. Out of 422 total cases documented since January, only four involved individuals who were fully vaccinated, while another case involved someone with one dose of the vaccine. The majority of these cases, totaling 280, are concentrated in Gaines County.

Measles Statistics

The following figures outline the distribution of measles cases by county:

• Gaines County: 280 cases
• Lubbock County: 27 cases
• Terry County: 41 cases
• Yoakum County: 16 cases
• Dawson County: 14 cases
• Other counties: Various cases ranging from 1 to 10.

Age Distribution

Cases distributed by age bracket are as follows:

• 0-4 years: 141 cases
• 5-17 years: 169 cases
• 18+: 87 cases
• Unknown age: 25 cases

Vaccination Status

Vaccination statuses of the affected individuals reveal:

• Not vaccinated or unknown status: 417 individuals
• Vaccinated with one dose: 1 individual
• Vaccinated with two or more doses: 4 individuals

Understanding Measles

Measles is a highly transmissible viral infection primarily spread through respiratory droplets. An infected individual can release the virus into the air, which can remain infectious for up to two hours in a room, posing significant risks to those who are unvaccinated.

The typical onset of symptoms includes high fever, cough, runny nose, and red eyes, followed by a characteristic rash that usually develops three to five days after the onset of earlier symptoms. Individuals are most contagious from four days before the rash appears to four days afterwards.

Prevention Measures

The best defense against measles is vaccination, with the measles-mumps-rubella (MMR) vaccine providing strong immunity through two doses. While breakthrough cases can occur among vaccinated individuals, they generally experience fewer symptoms and pose less risk for further transmission.

What to Do If Exposed

If you suspect exposure to measles or are exhibiting symptoms, it’s crucial to isolate yourself from others and consult a healthcare provider before visiting a clinic to minimize the risk of spreading the infection.

Controlling Outbreaks in Community Settings

• Individuals with confirmed or suspected measles should refrain from attending school, work, or social gatherings until four days after rash onset.
• During an outbreak, unvaccinated individuals should avoid contact with confirmed cases to prevent further spreading.
• Per Texas Administrative Code rules, schools may exclude unvaccinated students for at least 21 days following their last exposure to a confirmed case.

The Texas Department of State Health Services will continue to provide updates on the measles situation every Tuesday and Friday.

Additional Information

Officials have also reported cases in other Texas locations that are unrelated to the West Texas outbreak, mostly resulting from international travel.