A recent measles outbreak in West Texas and New Mexico has left parents of babies under 6 months old feeling anxious and uncertain about their child’s protection. Despite the high risk of complications, these infants cannot receive vaccinations right away.
Dr. Ana Montanez, a pediatrician in Lubbock, says she has had difficult conversations with families, particularly those whose children are too young to be vaccinated. She urges parents of unvaccinated babies to ensure anyone who spends time with their child is vaccinated and acknowledges that some parents must balance work and childcare responsibilities.
Measles is a highly contagious virus that can live on surfaces or in the air for two hours, making public spaces a risk. Pediatricians are taking extra precautions, such as reserving early morning visits and administering more MMR vaccinations than usual. Some mothers have made the financially risky decision to stay home and keep their baby safe.
One mother, Britta Anderson, felt overwhelming relief when her 13-month-old daughter was vaccinated against measles last month. However, on a WhatsApp group chat with fellow moms, the frustration is palpable, with many expressing fear and uncertainty about not having control over their child’s protection.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention warn that babies and young children are at higher risk of serious complications from measles, and nine out of 10 unvaccinated individuals will become infected if they come into contact with an infected person. Pediatricians are urging parents to take precautions, such as avoiding public spaces and frequent check-ups.
Source: https://www.nytimes.com/2025/03/14/well/family/measles-vaccines-infants.html