First measles death reported as widespread cases around Western Texas

Amarillo, Texas (KFDA) – the first measles death has been confirmed in Lubbock, as the cases continue to spread around the Texas panhandle.

Doctors with Texas Tech Health Sciences Center and Amarillo have confirmed that there are no cases of measles reported in Potter or Randall counties at this time.

Cases have been reported in Dallam and Hartley counties, as well as in lubbock cases that led to the death of a school -age child who was not vaccinated.

Doctors say that the best way to prevent illness is to be immunized with two doses of vaccine containing measles.

“The number of cases in our south is definitely increasing and the more cases they get, the greater the probability in our community. According to the health department this morning, we have no local cases. But, again, as it continues to spread in the areas next to us, we certainly have the chance to enter our community, “said Amanda Griffin, MD, pediatric professor, Texas Tech University Health Science School of Medicine.

The city of Amarillo sent a press release by saying that Amarillo Public Health (APH) helps residents with information and tips on measles virus.

“Prevention and preparation against measles virus are crucial to help the community,” said APH director Casie Stoughton. “Measles is an extremely contagious respiratory virus, which can cause disease that can endanger anyone being protected. Vaccination is the best protection against measles. “

Doctors say that being vaccinated does not just help you, but it helps those who are not able to be vaccinated, such as newborn or those who are immunocompromised.

“Our best protection for infants who cannot be vaccinated is to vaccinate everyone around them and protect them as best as possible. There are also patients who are immunocompromised who cannot receive the vaccine for themselves and, in fact, we owe both ourselves and our neighbors to vaccinate us to protect our entire community from this disease, “said Griffin.

The State Health Department of Texas and the Center for Disease Control and Prevention recommends children to receive a dose at 12-15 months and another at four to six years.

Dr. Griffin with Texas Tech Health Sciences says to stop a measles outbreak, community vaccination or immunity rate must be about 95%.