A measles outbreak in West Texas has become the largest in the state in nearly 30 years, with 124 cases identified across 9 counties and 18 hospitalizations. State health officials report that five cases were in vaccinated individuals, while the rest were in unvaccinated or unknown vaccination status patients.
The outbreak has spread beyond West Texas, with a person visiting locations in San Marcos and San Antonio while contagious. Measles can survive in the air for up to two hours, making it highly contagious. Symptoms include high fever, cough, runny nose, watery eyes, and a telltale rash that spreads throughout the body.
Prevention is crucial, with two doses of the measles-mumps-rubella vaccine being highly effective. Even vaccinated individuals may occasionally get measles, but with milder symptoms. If exposed to measles, individuals should isolate themselves and contact a healthcare provider before arriving for testing to prevent further spread.
During an outbreak, those without immunity should be isolated to control the spread. Schools and childcare settings must also exclude unimmunized children for at least 21 days after exposure to a measles case. It is essential to review vaccination history and discuss any concerns with a healthcare provider.
The information in this article is from the Texas Department of State Health Services, emphasizing the critical need for vaccination and control measures to contain the measles outbreak in Texas.
Source
Note: The image is for illustrative purposes only and is not the original image of the presented article.
