Overview of the Measles Situation

In recent weeks, West Texas has seen a significant rise in confirmed measles cases, prompting the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) to take action. The state’s health authorities reported 159 cases of measles linked to the outbreak as of late January, with continuing updates expected.

CDC’s Rapid Response Team

The CDC has deployed a team from its Epidemic Intelligence Service to Texas for an intensive 1-3 week support mission in addressing the measles outbreak. Their aim is to assist local officials in controlling the spread of the disease.

“The measles outbreak in Texas is a call to action for all of us to reaffirm our commitment to public health. By working together–parents, healthcare providers, community leaders, and government officials–we can prevent future outbreaks and protect the health of our nation,” stated Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr.

Details on the Outbreak

This current outbreak is particularly concerning as it marks the largest measles epidemic in Texas in three decades. Tragically, one school-aged child has succumbed to complications related to measles, and 22 individuals have required hospitalization.

Case Counts

• Gaines County: 107 cases
• Lubbock County: 3 cases
• Lynn County: 2 cases
• Terry County: 22 cases
• Yoakum County: 7 cases
• Dawson County: 9 cases
• Ector County: 2 cases
• Dallam County: 4 cases
• Martin County: 3 cases

Age Distribution

• 0-4 years: 53 cases
• 5-17 years: 74 cases
• 18+: 27 cases
• Unknown age: 5 cases

Vaccination Status

• Not Vaccinated: 80 individuals
• Unknown vaccination status: 74 individuals
• Vaccinated with at least one dose: 5 individuals

Understanding Measles

Measles is a highly contagious viral disease that spreads primarily through respiratory droplets. The illness can remain infectious in the air even after an infected person has left an area. Initial symptoms such as fever, cough, and runny nose typically emerge between one to two weeks following exposure.

Infected individuals are most contagious from four days before the rash appears until four days after.

Symptoms of Measles

The accompanying symptoms of measles include:

• High fever (potentially reaching 105°F)
• Cough
• Runny nose
• Red, watery eyes
• Small white spots inside the mouth (Koplik’s spots)
• Rash, which generally starts on the face and spreads across the body

Preventive Measures

The most effective preventive measure against measles is vaccination, specifically through the MMR (measles, mumps, rubella) vaccine given in two doses. It is a crucial tool in protecting not only individuals but also communities from outbreaks.

Individuals who are unsure about their vaccination status should consult healthcare providers to review their immunization history.

Next Steps and Recommendations

The Texas Department of State Health Services is committed to keeping the public informed, with updates provided bi-weekly on Tuesdays and Fridays.

What to Do If Exposed

If you believe you have been exposed to measles, it is vital to isolate yourself and contact your healthcare provider before visiting for a diagnosis. This approach helps mitigate the risk of further transmission.