A highly contagious measles outbreak in western rural counties of Texas has reported 58 cases since early February. The epicenter is Gaines County, which now has 45 confirmed cases. Neighboring Terry County also reports six additional cases. Lubbock County has its first case.
Hospitalized patients remain at 13, with four vaccinated and the rest either unvaccinated or unknown status. School-age children account for roughly half of the cases. Due to the disease’s contagious nature, further outbreaks are likely in Gaines County and surrounding areas, according to the Texas Department of State Health Services.
New Mexico has also reported a suspected measles outbreak in Lea County, which borders Gaines County. The Alabama Department of Public Health is monitoring the situation and urging parents to ensure their children have up-to-date measles vaccine doses. With the virus spreading for up to three weeks after infection, infected individuals can spread measles four days before symptoms appear or longer in those with weak immune systems.
Source: https://www.cidrap.umn.edu/measles/ten-more-measles-cases-58-total-confirmed-texas-outbreak