Measles cases are on the rise in Texas, with a significant outbreak that has nearly doubled in just two weeks. The Texas Department of State Health Services (DSHS) first reported the outbreak on February 5 in Gaines County.
Officials warned that because measles is highly contagious, more cases are likely to appear in Gaines County and nearby areas. This outbreak is one of the worst seen in decades and has even spread into New Mexico.
Recently, the New Mexico Department of Health (NMDOH) confirmed three new cases in Lea County, which is close to Gaines County. This brings their total to eight cases. These recent findings fit the criteria set by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention due to the presence of three unrelated cases.
Although these outbreaks are near each other, health officials have not confirmed a direct link between the Texas and New Mexico cases. Dr. Chad Smelser, a Deputy State Epidemiologist with NMDOH, stated they are thoroughly investigating every suspected case. He encourages anyone showing symptoms of measles to seek medical help.
Of the eight confirmed cases in New Mexico, six individuals were not vaccinated. Among the infected are four adults and four children, with two adults believing they were vaccinated as kids.
To help control the outbreak, NMDOH is alerting those who may have been exposed and is providing guidance on how to prevent further spread. They have also released a list of locations where people may have been in contact with the virus.
In response to the situation, Lea County is providing free vaccinations at local public health clinics over the next two weeks, without the need for appointments. It’s a crucial step to protect the community and curb this outbreak.
