Measles Exposure Confirmed in West Texas, What We Know So Far

As we finally recover from the massive snowstorm that rocked West Texas, we now get to address the three confirmed cases of measles that the Texas Department of State Health Services (DSHS) has recorded. Luckily, we know the locations where these cases were reported and the symptoms to look out for.

What is Measles?

Measles is rare because people typically receive the vaccine early in life. This viral and highly contagious disease is spread like most viruses: through coughing, sneezing, and talking from an infected person.

Where Were Positive Measles Cases Reported in West Texas

According to DSHS, the three people who tested positive were all visiting the state and were not Texas residents. The possible locations that they each may have visited were around the cities of Monahans and Pecos:

• January 13 at Lowe's Market in Monahans
• January 16 at Ward Memorial Hospital Emergency Department in Monahans
• January 17 at Aurivida Coffee Co. in Monahans
• January 18 at Walmart in Pecos

Signs That You Have Been Exposed

If you fear that you may have been exposed to these confirmed measles cases, then all you have to do is look for the telltale symptoms. These include high fevers, coughing, runny nose and watery eyes, and a rash that usually starts on the face before spreading downward as the days go by.

It's also important to note that the virus can linger in the air for up to two hours after someone who is infected has left the area. Oh yeah, and people who test positive are most likely to spread the virus about four days before and four days after the rash appears.

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If you feel that you are showing measles symptoms, you should isolate yourself from friends and family and call your doctor to discuss testing. If symptoms are present, you should always stay away from the most vulnerable: pregnant women and children under the age of five.

Your doctor can discuss the best course of action, such as the measles, mumps, and rubella vaccine if you have not already received it as a child.

You can learn more about measles and the positive cases in West Texas from the DSHS website.