Immunization remains best protective strategy

Feb. 24, 2025 (Hereford) – The number of measles cases in West Texas is increasing. Hereford Regional Medical Center is encouraging the community to check their and their families’ immunization status, get immunized, and follow public health guidelines if exposed.

The best way to prevent getting sick with measles is to be immunized with two doses of a long-established vaccine, which is primarily administered as the combination measles-mumps-rubella (MMR) vaccine. Two doses of the MMR vaccine are highly effective at preventing measles.

“Immunization against the measles is incredibly effective, and I encourage everyone in our community to make sure they and their children are protected,” said Candice Smith, RN, CEO, Deaf Smith County Hospital District. “Measles can cause serious long-term complications, but the good news is that it can be prevented with a simple immunization.”

As of Feb. 25, there were 124 confirmed measles cases in seven counties in the South Plains region. Nearly all the individuals had not received the measles immunization, and most of those affected are children. Sixteen patients have required hospitalization. Given the highly contagious nature of the measles, the state public health department expects the outbreak to spread.

Measles is highly contagious. The virus can remain infectious in the air for up to two hours after an infected person leaves an area. Measles can cause pneumonia, hearing loss, and encephalitis. Infants, pregnant women, and those with compromised immune systems are at higher risk for serious complications from the measles.

The recommended age for the first dose of the MMR vaccine is 12 to 15 months, followed by a second dose at 4 to 6 years of age. However, babies as young as six months may be vaccinated in communities experiencing an outbreak. Teens and adults who did not receive a childhood immunization or have no evidence of immunity should receive two MMR doses, 28 days apart.

Public health guidance for those with the measles or exposed to the measles should also be followed:

  • A person with measles must stay home away from others and avoid all public spaces, including school, daycare, work, social gatherings, sports, and recreational activities. Isolation should continue until after the fourth day following rash onset.
    • People who have been exposed to measles and who do not have evidence of immunity must stay home for 21 days after exposure unless they receive a dose of MMR vaccine within 72 hours of exposure.

“Please talk with your trusted health care provider if you have questions about the MMR vaccine or your immunization status,” added Smith. “Together, we can stop the spread.”

Contact the Hereford Health Clinic at 806-364-7512 or the Amarillo Public Health Department at 806-378-6300.