Texas measles outbreak: thousands likely exposed, 20 hospitalized with complications, 1 little child dead
US measles cases were already higher last week than the ANNUAL cases for the last 8 years out of 10. And a child has needlessly died, the first US death from measles in a decade.
Thousands are now suspected to have been exposed from the cases originating in an under-vaccinated county in West Texas, as cases spread to more populated areas with international airports—meaning exposures can now be spread all of the US and abroad. The origin of the cases—Gaines County, Tx—is rural with few big-box stores, few entertainment options, and only limited health care, so residents travel to cities more than an hour away for basic needs. Those cities have larger populations, creating new pockets of vulnerable unvaccinated populations.
Measles is far more contagious than just about any disease (definitely more than COVID). That’s because the virus can hang in the air for hours after someone contagious has been in a room. The incubation period is also longer—two weeks, leaving a long amount of time for someone who is contagious but not yet sick to expose others.
What to know
Click for a comprehensive update from epidemiologist Dr. Katelyn Jetelina, which includes the graphic on this post and another that provides outstanding comparative context between predictable outcomes with and without vaccination.
See our earlier posts on this completely predictable mess that is miserable for parents and kids and has the potential for serious—even deadly—side effects:\
Should you get vaccinated?
Adults born before 1957 are likely to have had measles and have natural immunity and typically do not need a booster. However, they should consult with a healthcare provider if they are at risk for exposure or have concerns about their immunity.
Adults born after 1957 and vaccinated before 1968 may need a booster. The inactivate vaccine used during that time period was not as effective as the current live attenuated vaccine.
Adults and children who had both MMR vaccinations (a two-shot vaccination) are considered protected for life. If you received only one of the two shots, you may not be protected; several of the Texas cases were in this category.
Healthcare workers, travelers to areas with measles outbreaks, and immunocompromised individuals are at higher risk for measles and may need a booster dose, even if they have received two doses previously.
Just told my older sister. She's in that questionable age group. She's no where near west Texas but I imagine it will be playing at a theater near her soon. She was hit hard by chicken pox. I don't even want to think what measles would do to her especially at her age.