Measles is making headlines in Austin-Travis County again, with city and county officials gearing up to provide an update on the situation on Monday. Mayor Kirk Watson, County Judge Andy Brown, and Medical Authority Dr. Desmar Walkes are expected to detail the second recorded measles case in the county and discuss the spread across the state during a noon press conference at City Hall, Fox 7 Austin reports. Vaccination resources and Austin Public Health's emergency operations response will also be on the agenda.
The newest incident involves a vaccinated adult, and while this might bring some comfort, it's clear that no one is completely immune. The individual reportedly contracted the virus while traveling within the country. As of the latest update, they're in isolation with mild symptoms, showing that even those who've had their shots can still catch the bug, albeit in a milder form. The patient's diagnosis last week triggered the release of a list of public spaces they visited - including coffee shops, restaurants, and stores - where others might have been exposed, KUT reports. People who visited those places during the specified times should watch for symptoms at least until May 11.
With the Texas Department of State Health Services confirming 646 measles cases since late January, the majority involving unvaccinated individuals or those of unknown vaccination status, it's a stark reminder that vaccines are crucial. Dr. Desmar Walkes pointed out, "While a vaccinated person can still get measles, they are more likely to experience mild symptoms and are less likely to spread it." The local health authority emphasized, according to KUT, the importance of being vaccinated as the outbreak persists.
The contagion is unforgiving, targeting mainly children and adults under the age of 18. Among the confirmed cases, two children in West Texas succumbed to the illness. Walkes advises even vaccinated individuals to consult with their doctors about a possible booster dose, especially in light of the outbreak swelling with 191 cases in young kids, and 243 in school-aged children. While 187 adults have also been hit by the viral tight grip, Texas health officials are working overtime to contain the spread, especially in affected counties like Cochran, Dawson, and Lubbock, among others.
Measles is no joking matter; it's highly contagious, with symptoms including a high fever, cough, runny nose, and a characteristic rash that starts on the face and spreads downward. “The best way to prevent getting sick is to be immunized with two doses of a vaccine against measles,” officials remind the community. The recent case of the vaccinated adult proves once again that while the MMR vaccine is highly effective, vigilance remains key in the fight against this relentless disease.
