This is the largest measles outbreak that Texas has experienced in more than 30 years.
Most cases are in children ages 5 to 17, and 13 patients have been hospitalized so far.
In neighboring New Mexico,eight measles caseshave been reported in a county bordering the outbreak in Texas.
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The risk of measles transmission may be increasing in other parts of the country, too.
Measles is a highly contagious disease with the potential to cause disability and death.
To prevent outbreaks, 95% of people in a community must be vaccinated.
Vaccination rates in the U.S. vary by region.
Overall, the country has fallen below this threshold in the last three years.
The virus is airborne and can linger in an indoor space for up to two hours.
Nine out of 10 people without immunity who come in contact with someone who has measles will become infected.
When an infected person enters a community where people have high immunity, measles transmission is unlikely.
Its like theres no tinder for the fire to catch, Moss said.
The measles mortality rate is lowabout one to three in 1,000 cases result in death.
However, the complications can be severe.
The number of measles cases this year remains low, as does the risk of death.
However, Ostrosky-Zeichner said that even small outbreaks can strain health systems.
Its super time-consuming when a case of measles shows up at your doorstep, he said.
What to Know About the MMR Vaccine
The two-dose MMR vaccine offers strong protection against measles.
If youre vaccinated, you have absolutely nothing to worry about, Ostrosky-Zeichner said.
If youre not vaccinated, I think this is a time to consider vaccination.
People who travel abroad or live in a place with a local outbreak may get their second dose sooner.
Ostrosky-Zeichner said its particularly important that community vaccination levels are high to protect people who cannot be vaccinated.
They tend to underestimate the risk of the disease and overestimate the risk of the vaccine.
Thats exacerbated by a lot of misinformation and disinformation, particularly around measles vaccines and autism, Moss said.
What Are the Symptoms of Measles?
Within one to three weeks after exposure, a red, splotchy rash will appear.
The rash tends to start at the hairline and spread down the body.
The patient is contagious from four days before the rash develops to four days after it appears.
A person with symptoms of measles should wear a mask and stay isolated.
That can help minimize exposure for others in the waiting room.
What This Means For You
you’re able to get the MMR vaccine at any age.
The vaccine schedule is flexible.
Texas Department of State Health Services.Measles outbreak - Feb. 18, 2025.
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.Measles cases and outbreaks.
United Press International.Measles cases rising in U.S., Canada.
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.Measles symptoms and complications.
Mayo Clinic.Researchers clarify why measles doesnt evolve to escape immunity.
