A measles outbreak has spread to 58 cases in rural West Texas and eight people in neighboring New Mexico, with no direct connection identified between the two states.
The highly contagious disease has been concentrated in Gaines County, with 45 infections reported. In total, 13 people are hospitalized with measles, making it Texas’ largest outbreak in nearly three decades.
State health officials attribute the outbreak to a “close-knit, undervaccinated” Mennonite community, particularly families who attend small private religious schools or are homeschooled. New Mexico cases have been linked to exposure at a grocery store, elementary school, church, hospital, and Walgreens in Hobbs.
Measles is a respiratory virus that can survive for up to two hours and affects up to 9 out of 10 susceptible individuals if exposed. While most kids recover from the disease, it can lead to complications like pneumonia, blindness, and brain swelling.
The measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR) vaccine is safe and highly effective in preventing infection and severe cases. The first shot is recommended for children between 12-15 months old, with a second dose between 4-6 years old.
High vaccination rates are crucial in controlling the spread of diseases like measles. However, childhood vaccination rates have declined nationwide since the pandemic, leading to more parents claiming religious or personal conscience waivers to exempt their kids from required shots.
Public health officials are hosting vaccination clinics and screening efforts in Texas, while New Mexico medical providers are being urged to report measles infections and offer free vaccinations.
Source: https://apnews.com/article/measles-texas-new-mexico-mmr-outbreak-vaccines-408371700e3ab548777bf0354e586549