The Texas Department of State Health Services has declared the end of this year’s measles outbreak, which sickened hundreds of people earlier this year. The state health officials said that more than 42 days have passed since any new reported case in counties with previous evidence of ongoing transmission. This duration is double the disease’s maximum incubation period, marking the end of the outbreak.
Since January, Texas has seen 762 confirmed cases of measles, with over two-thirds being among children. Unfortunately, two unvaccinated children died from complications related to the virus. The health department attributes the containment of the outbreak to a comprehensive response that included testing, vaccination, disease monitoring, and public awareness campaigns.
Despite the declaration of an end to the Texas outbreak, the US is still experiencing ongoing measles cases, with no indication that there will be fewer additional cases in Texas this year. Health providers are advised to remain vigilant and test for measles if patients display symptoms compatible with the virus.
Measles is a highly contagious disease that can cause severe infections and even death. However, the vaccine, which is typically administered as part of the MMR vaccine, has proven to be safe and effective in preventing its spread.
Source: https://www.cbsnews.com/news/measles-outbreak-texas-over-health-officials