Oklahoma reports 1st measles cases of the year, Texas, New Mexico outbreak updates
Oklahoma
The Oklahoma State Department of Health (OSDH) has reported two measles cases in the state.
The cases are being reported to the CDC as probable cases based on the facts that the individuals:
Reported exposure associated with the Texas and New Mexico outbreak
Reported experiencing symptoms consistent with measles
After realizing they had been exposed to measles, the individuals took the proper precautions by immediately excluding themselves from public settings and staying home throughout their contagious period. By following public health recommendations after an exposure, these individuals prevented the risk of transmitting measles to the public.
“These cases highlight the importance of being aware of measles activity as people travel or host visitors,” Kendra Dougherty, Director of Infectious Disease Prevention and Response at OSDH said. “When people know they have exposure risk and do not have immunity to measles, they can exclude themselves from public settings for the recommended duration to eliminate the risk of transmission in their community.”
Texas
Texas state health officials reported an additional 25 measles cases in the South Plains region outbreak, bringing the outbreak total to 223.
Nine counties have reported cases with Gaines County reporting the most with 156.
New Mexico
The case total is now 33—32 in Lea County and one in neighboring Eddy county.
There has been 1 confirmed death from measles (Texas), and 1 death under investigation (New Mexico).