Measles is coming back in Texas, and Tarrant County isn't immune. The viral infection, known for its contagiousness and potential to cause serious health issues, especially in the unvaccinated, has just arrived in North Central Texas. The first two confirmed cases were reported in Tarrant County last Friday. According to the Tarrant County Public Health (TCPH) announcement, the confirmed cases involved a child and an adult who shared the same household and were not vaccinated.
This outbreak appears to have West Texas as its focal point, but it isn't staying put – measles is airborne and can linger on surfaces for hours, paving the way for the virus to spread beyond its origins. Reports from TCPH showed instances of public exposure in several Tarrant County locations. Among these reported exposures, the Great Wolf Lodge and Grapevine Mills Mall were cited in an April 4 alert, though the risk period for these particular locations has since elapsed.
In a far from ideal timing, a person infected with measles visited Texas Live! and attended a Texas Rangers home game at Globe Life Field on April 19, potentially exposing others. TCPH advises that the last day to watch for symptoms from this exposure batch is May 20. Additionally, two contagious individuals went to Mansfield Methodist Emergency Department on April 29, with May 20 marking the end date for monitoring symptoms for anyone who might've crossed paths with them, as outlined in a Tarrant County Public Health alert.
Tarrant County Public Health has issued guidance for anyone who thinks they might have been exposed, especially if they are unvaccinated, pregnant, or immunocompromised. They should contact their healthcare providers without delay. The symptoms to watch out for include a fever above 101 degrees, cough, runny nose, red eyes, and a red, blotchy rash that starts from the hairline.
The health department recommends a self-imposed quarantine and contacting a healthcare provider for those developing symptoms. To assist public health efforts, the Tarrant County Public Health provides vaccinations at numerous clinics, including one at 2920 S. Cooper St. in Arlington. With the clinic open weekday mornings and afternoons, getting vaccinated is both convenient and critical. For appointments, the public can call 817-248-6299.
