Since late January, Texas has been experiencing a significant measles outbreak, with 279 confirmed cases reported statewide as of March 18, 2025. Tragically, this includes the death of an unvaccinated school-aged child. The majority of cases are concentrated in the South Plains and Panhandle regions, with 20 patients hospitalized to date.
Important Information:
- How Measles Spreads: Measles is a highly contagious virus that spreads through the air. If someone is not vaccinated, there's a 90% chance they will get infected if exposed.
- Symptoms to Watch For: Early signs of measles include a high fever, cough, runny nose, and red eyes. These are followed by a rash that usually starts on the face and spreads. Complications can be severe, especially for children under five.How Measles Spreads: Measles is a highly contagious virus that spreads through the air. If someone is not vaccinated, there's a 90% chance they will get infected if exposed.
What You Can Do:
- Check Vaccination Status: Make sure everyone in your family is up to date with their measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR) vaccine. This is the best way to protect against measles.
- Recognize Symptoms Early: If someone in your family shows symptoms of measles, contact your healthcare provider immediately. Early detection can help prevent the spread of the virus.
- Practice Good Hygiene: Encourage frequent handwashing and avoid close contact with people who are sick. If someone in your family has measles, keep them isolated from others to prevent spreading the virus.
- Mask Up: Wear a face mask (NIOSH-certified disposable N95) if you suspect you have been infected to prevent further spread.
- Stay Informed: Follow updates from local health authorities and the CDC for the latest information on the outbreak and any additional recommendations.
By staying informed and taking these precautions, families can help protect themselves and their communities from measles.
Resources:
- “Measles Cases and Outbreaks.” Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 26 Jan. 2025.
- “Measles Signs and Symptoms.” Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 5 Nov. 2020
- “Interim Infection Prevention and Control Recommendations for Measles in Healthcare Healthcare Settings.” Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 23 Jul. 2019.
