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Measles Cases Surge Past 1,000 in US, Texas Outbreak Shows Signs of Slowing
The United States has surpassed 1,000 measles cases, a grim milestone reached Friday amidst ongoing outbreaks across several states. While the national count climbs, Texas, the epicenter of the largest outbreak, reported a significantly smaller increase in new cases this week, offering a glimmer of hope.
Texas accounts for the majority of cases nationwide, with 709 confirmed infections as of Friday. The outbreak, which began three months ago, has also spread to neighboring New Mexico, Oklahoma, and Kansas. Tragically, two unvaccinated children in Texas and one unvaccinated adult in New Mexico have died from measles-related illnesses.
Other states grappling with active outbreaks, defined as three or more connected cases, include Indiana, Michigan, Montana, Ohio, Pennsylvania, and Tennessee. The situation extends beyond US borders, with outbreaks also occurring in Ontario, Canada (1,440 cases) and Chihuahua, Mexico (1,041 cases and one death).
Texas Sees Smallest Increase in Weeks
Texas health officials reported only seven new measles cases since Tuesday, bringing the state’s total to 709 across 29 counties. One additional hospitalization was reported, bringing that total to 92.
Officials estimate that less than 10 cases are currently active. Gaines County, where the outbreak originated in an undervaccinated Mennonite community, accounts for over half of the state’s cases.
Sadly, an 8-year-old child recently died from measles-related pulmonary failure, marking the second pediatric death in Texas linked to the outbreak.
Measles Cases by State
A breakdown of measles cases in other affected states:
- New Mexico: 71 cases, including one death.
- Oklahoma: 14 confirmed cases, three probable cases.
- Kansas: 48 cases.
- Indiana: 8 cases.
- Michigan: 9 cases.
- Montana: 8 cases.
- North Dakota: 9 cases.
- Ohio: 34 cases.
- Pennsylvania: 15 cases.
- Tennessee: 6 cases.
Additional cases have been reported in other states, often linked to international travel. The resurgence of measles underscores the importance of vaccination.
The measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR) vaccine is highly effective in preventing the disease. Health officials recommend two doses of the MMR vaccine for children, with the first dose administered between 12 and 15 months of age and the second dose between 4 and 6 years old.
Measles: Symptoms and Treatment
Measles is a highly contagious airborne virus. Symptoms include high fever, runny nose, cough, red and watery eyes, and a characteristic rash.
While most people recover, measles can lead to serious complications. There is no specific treatment for measles, with care focusing on symptom management and preventing complications.