State health officials have reported three confirmed cases of measles in individuals who are not Texas residents but spent time in Reeves and Ward counties. The Texas Department of State Health Services has identified several locations where community members may have been exposed to the virus. These include Lowe’s Market in Monahans on Jan. 13 between 9 a.m. and 2 p.m., Ward Memorial Hospital Emergency Department in Monahans on Jan. 16 from 8 p.m. to midnight, Aurivida Coffee Co. in Monahans on Jan. 17 from 9 a.m. to noon, and Walmart in Pecos on Jan. 18 from 5 to 9 p.m.
Measles is a highly contagious disease that spreads through coughing, sneezing, or close proximity to an infected person. The virus can remain airborne for up to two hours after the infected individual has left the area.
Symptoms typically include high fever, cough, runny nose, red and watery eyes, and a rash that starts on the face before spreading downward two to five days after initial symptoms appear.
The infectious period for measles begins four days before the rash appears and lasts until four days after its onset.
Health officials advise anyone who believes they may have been exposed or who is experiencing symptoms to isolate immediately and contact their healthcare provider by phone before visiting any medical facility for testing arrangements that minimize exposure risk. Symptoms usually develop seven to twenty-one days following exposure.
Complications from measles can be serious, such as ear infections, diarrhea, pneumonia, encephalitis (brain inflammation), or even death in rare cases. Infants and children under five years old, pregnant women, and people with weakened immune systems are considered at highest risk for severe outcomes.
Vaccination remains the most effective preventive measure against measles. Two doses of the MMR (measles, mumps, rubella) vaccine provide approximately 97 percent protection and long-lasting immunity. The vaccine is available through healthcare providers or pharmacies for those over age fourteen. State health guidelines recommend administering the first dose at twelve to fifteen months of age and the second dose at four to six years of age.
For further information about measles prevention and symptoms, state health officials encourage consulting healthcare providers or visiting official resources.
