The Texas Department of State Health Services (DSHS) announced on Monday that the state’s measles outbreak has officially ended after no new cases were reported for over 42 days in counties with previous transmission. The outbreak, which began in late January, resulted in a total of 762 confirmed cases in Texas, including two child deaths and 99 hospitalizations.
The virus has spread across the US, with a total of 1,356 confirmed cases as of August 5, according to the CDC. More than two-thirds of Texas cases affected school-aged children. Experts consider the outbreak over due to its maximum incubation period being met.
However, potential risks remain, and ongoing outbreaks exist in North America and other areas of the world, which may lead to additional measles cases in Texas this year. Healthcare providers are advised to continue testing for measles if patients exhibit compatible symptoms.
Measles is a highly contagious respiratory illness that can cause life-threatening complications, including pneumonia, brain swelling, and pregnancy complications. Vaccination is the best way to prevent measles, with two doses of a measles-containing immunization recommended.
To protect against infection, experts recommend being aware of surroundings, wearing masks in affected areas, practicing good handwashing, and keeping surfaces clean.
Source: https://www.foxnews.com/health/largest-measles-outbreak-us-officially-over-health-officials-say