The ongoing outbreak of measles in the Midwest states has primarily affected unvaccinated children. The outbreak has now expanded to include a third state, as health officials in Oklahoma reported two “probable” cases linked to the outbreaks in Texas and New Mexico. The individuals developed measles symptoms after exposure to cases associated with the ongoing outbreaks in neighboring states. They promptly isolated themselves upon realizing they were exposed and remained at home during the contagious period.
Meanwhile, the measles outbreak in West Texas continues to escalate. The Texas Department of State Health Services confirmed 223 cases, an increase from the previous count of 198. In New Mexico, 33 cases were reported in Lea County, which shares a border with Texas.
The majority of cases have occurred in unvaccinated children, raising concerns about the spread of the virus through travel. Katherine Wells, the director of public health in Lubbock, Texas, emphasized the importance of vaccination and the cross-border nature of communicable diseases.
Measles is highly contagious, especially among the unvaccinated population, who are at greater risk of infection, severe illness, hospitalization, and even death. Vaccination with two doses of the MMR vaccine is essential for prevention, with the first dose recommended at age 1 and the second dose at the start of kindergarten. Two doses are approximately 97% effective in preventing measles.
In addition to the West Texas outbreak, individual cases unrelated to the outbreak have been reported in Maryland and Vermont this week, involving patients who had recently traveled abroad. Health officials are on alert, emphasizing the importance of vaccination and awareness to prevent the spread of measles.
