The Texas Department of State Health Services has confirmed three cases of measles in individuals who are not residents of Texas but spent time in Reeves and Ward counties. The department has released information about possible exposure sites and times to inform the public.
Potential exposure locations include Lowe’s Market in Monahans on Wednesday, January 13 from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m.; Ward Memorial Hospital Emergency Department in Monahans on Friday, January 16 from 8 p.m. to midnight; Aurivida Coffee Co. in Monahans on Saturday, January 17 from 9 a.m. to noon; and Walmart in Pecos on Sunday, January 18 from 5 to 9 p.m.
Measles is described as a highly contagious viral disease that can spread through coughing, sneezing, or close proximity to an infected person. The virus may remain airborne for up to two hours after the infected individual leaves the area.
Symptoms typically include high fever, cough, runny nose, red and watery eyes, and a rash that usually starts on the face before spreading downward two to five days after initial symptoms appear. Individuals with measles can transmit the virus from four days before the rash appears until four days afterward.
The department advises anyone who believes they have been exposed or is experiencing symptoms to isolate immediately and contact their healthcare provider by phone before visiting any medical facility. Symptoms generally develop between seven and twenty-one days after exposure.
Complications from measles can be serious and may involve ear infections, diarrhea, pneumonia, brain inflammation (encephalitis), or even death in rare cases. Those most at risk include infants and children under five years old, pregnant women, and people with weakened immune systems.
Vaccination remains the primary preventive measure against measles. According to the Texas Department of State Health Services, “Two doses of the MMR vaccine provide a 97 percent protection and long-lasting immunity.” The vaccine is available through healthcare providers or pharmacies for those over age fourteen. The recommended schedule is one dose at twelve to fifteen months of age and a second dose at four to six years of age.
For more information about measles prevention and symptoms, residents are encouraged to consult their healthcare provider or visit official health resources online.
