A measles outbreak that began in West Texas has spread to New Mexico, where an unvaccinated resident died from the infection, state health officials said. The person tested positive for measles but death was not confirmed as caused by the virus.
The case in New Mexico is part of a growing outbreak that has sickened nearly 160 people and hospitalized 22 in West Texas. All cases in New Mexico have involved unvaccinated or unknown vaccine status individuals, although officials say a link to the Texas outbreak is suspected.
New Mexico health officials urge residents to get vaccinated against measles, mumps, and rubella, emphasizing that two doses of the vaccine prevent more than 97% of measles infections. The virus spreads easily through respiratory droplets and can lead to serious complications such as pneumonia, brain swelling, and long-term immune system weakness.
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, one in every 1,000 children who get measles will die, highlighting the risks associated with not getting vaccinated. Experts warn that the virus can cause lasting damage, including blindness, deafness, and intellectual disabilities.
As the outbreak continues, scientists and health officials are calling on individuals to prioritize vaccination as a means of protection against measles.
Source: https://www.nytimes.com/2025/03/06/health/measles-death-new-mexico.html