Measles Outbreak sparks Health Alert in San Antonio and San Marcos, Texas

San Antonio and San Marcos, Texas, are under a health alert following a measles outbreak, the largest in decades, according to the Texas Department of State Health Services. The outbreak, traced to Gaines County in West Texas, has prompted officials to urge vigilance.An individual who tested positive for measles traveled to several public locations, including texas State University, the university of Texas at San Antonio (UTSA), and the San Antonio River Walk. This development raises concerns about potential exposure and the need for increased awareness and preventative measures.

The Texas Department of State Health Services confirmed that an individual infected with measles traveled from Gaines County,the epicenter of the outbreak,to San Antonio and San Marcos.The Gaines county outbreak has resulted in at least 90 confirmed cases, marking the worst measles outbreak in 30 years. The infected individual visited several public locations, potentially exposing numerous people to the highly contagious virus.

Timeline of Potential Exposure Locations

Health officials have released a detailed timeline of the locations visited by the individual while contagious:

• Friday, February 14th:
  • Texas state University in San Marcos from approximately 3 p.m.to 7 p.m.
  • Twin Peaks restaurant in San Marcos from 6 p.m. to 10 p.m.
• Saturday, February 15th:
  • The University of Texas at San Antonio Main Campus between 10 a.m.and 2 p.m.
  • San Antonio River Walk attractions—Wax Museum, Ripley’s Believe It or Not and Ripley’s Illusion Lab between 2:30 p.m. and 5:30 p.m.
  • Mr. Crabby’s Seafood and Bar in live Oak between 6 p.m. and 8 p.m.

Anyone who was present at these locations during the specified times,or up to two hours afterward,is advised to monitor themselves for symptoms of measles.

Gaines County: Epicenter of the Outbreak

The current measles outbreak is centered in Gaines County, which, according to state health data, had the highest unvaccinated rate in the state this school year, standing at 18 percent. This low vaccination rate has contributed substantially to the rapid spread of the virus within the community.

Expert Advice and Recommendations

dr. Anita Kurian, deputy director at the san Antonio Metropolitan Health District, emphasized the severity of the situation, stating:

measles is a highly contagious virus that can lead to serious complications, especially in young children and individuals with weakened immune systems. if you think you may have been exposed or are showing symptoms, please contact your healthcare provider promptly.
Dr. Anita Kurian, Deputy Director at the San Antonio Metropolitan Health District

Dr. Kurian also highlighted the importance of vaccination in preventing the spread of measles:

Individuals who have not been vaccinated are at greater risk of infection. We urge everyone to ensure they are up to date on thier vaccinations to protect themselves and those around them.
Dr. Anita Kurian, Deputy Director at the San Antonio Metropolitan Health District

She further added:

Protecting our community from measles starts with staying informed and taking the necessary precautions. We encourage everyone to review their vaccination status and seek medical advice if they suspect exposure. Early detection and vaccination are key to preventing the spread of this preventable disease.
Dr. Anita Kurian, Deputy Director at the San Antonio Metropolitan Health District

Recommended Actions for Potential Exposure

Public health officials recommend the following steps for individuals who may have been exposed to measles:

• Review immunization and medical records to check protection against measles. Those who have not had measles or the MMR (measles, mumps, rubella) vaccine may not be protected and should consult a healthcare provider about getting vaccinated.
• Contact a healthcare provider if pregnant, have an infant, or have a weakened immune system, regardless of vaccination history.
• Monitor for symptoms such as fever or an unexplained rash from 4 to 21 days after exposure.
• If symptoms appear, stay home and avoid school, work, and large gatherings. Call a healthcare provider right away, and notify them about potential measles exposure and symptoms before entering a healthcare facility.

Understanding Measles

Measles is a highly contagious disease that spreads easily through the air when an infected person breathes, talks, coughs, or sneezes. The virus can remain infectious in the air and on surfaces for up to two hours after an infected person has left the area. An infected individual can spread the disease up to four days before and after the appearance of the measles rash.

Common Measles Symptoms

Common symptoms of measles include:

• High fever (as high as 105°F)
• Cough
• Runny nose
• Red and watery eyes
• Tiny white spots that may appear inside the mouth 2-3 days after symptoms begin
• Rash 3-5 days after other signs of illness, typically starting at the face and spreading down to the rest of the body

prevention through Vaccination

Measles can be prevented with the measles, mumps, and rubella vaccine (MMR or MMRV). The MMR vaccine protects against measles, mumps, and rubella, while the MMRV vaccine also protects against varicella (chickenpox). Two doses of the MMR vaccine are 97% effective against measles, and one dose is 93% effective. Maintaining a two-dose vaccine coverage of 95% or above in the community is crucial to preventing the spread of measles.

Conclusion

The measles outbreak reaching San Antonio and San Marcos underscores the importance of vaccination and vigilance. Residents are urged to review their vaccination status, monitor for symptoms, and contact healthcare providers if they suspect exposure. public health officials are working to contain the spread of the virus and protect the community from this highly contagious disease.For more facts on measles, visit the texas Department of State Health Services website.