A historic measles outbreak in West Texas has nearly reached 200 cases, with the number of cases in neighboring New Mexico tripling in a day to 30. The majority of cases in both states are in people under 18 who are unvaccinated. A school-age child died of measles in Texas last week, the first measles death in a decade in the U.S. The outbreak has prompted a team from the CDC to assist local health officials.
The rise in measles cases has been a study since childhood vaccination rates have declined nationwide. Gaines County, the epicenter of the outbreak, has vaccination rates far below the 95% needed to prevent outbreaks, particularly in its Mennonite community, which traditionally has lower vaccination rates.
The measles, mumps, and rubella vaccine is safe and highly effective at preventing infection and severe cases, with the first shot recommended for children 12-15 months and the second for ages 4-6 years. Measles can cause dangerous complications such as pneumonia, blindness, brain swelling, and death.
To combat the spread of the virus, health workers are holding vaccination clinics, educating the public, and conducting screening efforts. The rise in measles cases has sparked concerns about the impact of declining vaccination rates and the need to ensure communities have high vaccination rates to prevent outbreaks.
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