Measles Outbreak in Texas: What You Need to Know!

A pharmacy bustling with individuals seeking information about the measles vaccine.

News Summary

Texas is currently facing a serious measles outbreak with 124 reported cases, and distressingly, the first measles-related death in the U.S. since 2015. Vaccination rates are a concern, particularly in Travis County, where only 89.61% of kindergarteners are vaccinated. Local pharmacies are seeing a surge in inquiries for the MMR vaccine as awareness grows about this highly contagious disease. Public health officials stress the importance of vaccination to protect both individuals and vulnerable populations.

Measles Outbreak in Texas: What You Need to Know!

In Lubbock, Texas, the situation regarding the recent measles outbreak is getting serious. With a growing total of 124 reported cases, health officials are on high alert as they work to combat this highly contagious disease.

A Tragic First in a Decade

Heartbreakingly, Texas has recently seen the first measles-related death in the U.S. since 2015. This tragic loss involved a school-aged child who was unvaccinated, highlighting the importance of vaccination in protecting our communities.

Public Interest in Vaccination Soars

With the outbreak making headlines, local pharmacies are buzzing with activity. Tarrytown Pharmacy in Austin has reported an impressive rise in inquiries about the MMR vaccine (measles, mumps, and rubella). Chief Pharmacy Officer Rannon Ching noted that there is a significant uptick in patients eager to learn more about the vaccine and its benefits.

In fact, the demand for vaccines has become so high that Tarrytown Pharmacy has even had to reorder MMR vaccines after selling out!

Why Vaccination Rates Matter

The MMR vaccine is crucial in preventing outbreaks. After measles was declared eliminated in the U.S. back in 2000, vaccination rates have dropped in some areas, raising concerns over herd immunity. To effectively protect the community, the World Health Organization recommends achieving a 95% vaccination rate.

In Travis County, the vaccination rates for kindergarten kids stand at a mere 89.61%, which is alarmingly low compared to neighboring counties. For older students, however, the situation looks much better. Seventh-grade MMR vaccination rates are higher, with Hays County recording 96.31%, Williamson County at 97.31%, and Travis County slightly behind at 97.84%.

Who Needs to Be Concerned?

It’s essential to understand that individuals vaccinated between 1963 and 1969 might not be fully protected against measles. If this applies to you or someone you know, a trip to the healthcare provider for a possible booster might be in order to ensure maximum safety.

Measles is not just a mild illness. It’s incredibly contagious, with an infection rate of about 90% among unvaccinated people who share the same airspace as an infected individual. As if that wasn’t concerning enough, the Hays County Health Department recently issued a warning regarding potential exposure linked to a visitor from Gaines County.

Symptoms and Treatment

Measles symptoms can escalate quickly, potentially leading to severe disease and hospitalization, especially in unvaccinated children. The typical vaccination schedule for the MMR vaccine includes doses administered at 12 to 15 months and again at 4 to 6 years of age. Planning on enrolling a child in kindergarten? Keep in mind that they’ll need two doses of the MMR vaccine, unless an exemption is claimed.

Access to Vaccines

For those in Travis County, where only 89.6% of kindergarteners are vaccinated against measles, hope is not lost. Austin Public Health is offering vaccines for free or at reduced costs for individuals who are uninsured or underinsured, making it easier than ever to get protected.

Ultimately, getting vaccinated is not just about individual safety; it’s about protecting vulnerable populations within our communities, including infants who are too young to receive the vaccine and those with weakened immune systems. Let’s come together to ensure that everyone stays safe and healthy during this troubling time.