The Texas Department of State Health Services has reported a measles outbreak that has taken root in West Texas, with 702 confirmed cases since late January. In the latest update from May 2, officials have noted an increase of 19 cases. Despite these numbers, fewer than 10 of those cases are currently considered actively infectious, with their symptoms starting less than a week ago, indicating that individuals are infectious four days before and four days after the rash onset, according to the Texas Department of State Health Services.
Among those affected, 91 have been hospitalized throughout the outbreak; this figure does not reflect the current hospitalizations, but the cumulative number since the outbreak's identification. Tragically, two fatalities have been reported: both school-aged children who resided in the affected area were not vaccinated and had no known underlying health conditions. These developments highlight the persistent risks of contagious diseases in communities with low vaccination rates.
DSHS has identified several counties with ongoing transmission of the measles virus, including Cochran, Dallam, Dawson, Gaines, Garza, Lynn, Lamar, Lubbock, Terry, and Yoakum. Health officials expect that additional cases are likely to emerge within these counties and the surrounding areas, given the highly contagious nature of measles.
In response to the outbreak, DSHS is working in tandem with local health departments to conduct a thorough investigation and manage the spread. The situation is evolving, and health services are on high alert to provide updates and guidance to the affected communities. As reported by the Texas Department of State Health Services, people are urged to review their vaccination status and adhere to best practices for disease prevention and control.
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