March 7, 2025 (Hereford) – Cases of measles continue to rise across West Texas, with one reported death and more than 20 hospitalizations in the Lubbock area. This marks the first measles-related death in the United States in a decade. While there are no confirmed cases in Deaf Smith County currently, Hereford Regional Medical Center urges the community to protect themselves with immunization with the MMR vaccine.

Immunity testing is also available for those who are unsure of their vaccination status immunity from previous infection with the measles. To schedule a titer test to check for immunity or to speak with a provider, contact the HRMC Clinic at (806) 364-7512.

Titer test results take 2-3 days, and if results show immunity, immunization is not needed. The MMR vaccine (measles-mumps-rubella) remains the safest and most effective way to prevent measles. One dose of the vaccine is 93 percent effective, and completing the two-dose series increases protection to 97 percent.

“If you’ve been vaccinated or have had measles before, your immune system knows what to do — you are protected,” said Candice Smith, RN, CEO of Deaf Smith County Hospital District. “But for those who are unvaccinated, exposure to measles comes with a 99 percent chance of infection. This is why prevention through vaccination is absolutely critical.”

Measles spreads easily and can linger in the air for up to two hours after an infected person leaves the area. The illness begins with a 7-day prodrome phase, followed by a 14-day active infection, meaning unvaccinated individuals may need to isolate for 21 days after exposure.

Measles symptoms include:

  • High fever
  • Cough and runny nose
  • Red, watery eyes
  • A distinctive head-to-toe rash that spreads across the body

Serious complications include pneumonia, hearing loss, and encephalitis. Infants, pregnant women, and immunocompromised individuals are at the highest risk of severe illness.

Who Should Get Vaccinated?

The MMR vaccine is typically given in two doses:

  • First dose: 12 to 15 months of age
  • Second dose: 4 to 6 years of age

In the case of an outbreak, babies as young as 6 months can receive early vaccination. Unvaccinated teens and adults should receive two doses, 28 days apart, unless a titer test confirms existing immunity.

What to Do if Exposed or Diagnosed

Public health guidance recommends the following actions:

  • If you have measles, stay home and avoid public spaces (including work, school, and social gatherings) until at least 4 days after rash onset.
  • If you are exposed and unvaccinated, you must quarantine at home for 21 days after exposure unless you receive an MMR vaccine within 72 hours.

“We know the community is concerned, but there’s no need to panic,” added Smith. “If you’re vaccinated, you are well-protected. If you’re unsure of your immunity, our clinic can help with titer testing. Together, we can stop the spread.”

For appointments or additional information, contact the Hereford Health Clinic at (806) 364-7512 or the Amarillo Public Health Department at (806) 378-6300.

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ABOUT DEAF SMITH COUNTY HOSPITAL DISTRICT

Deaf Smith County Hospital District operates an EMS, outpatient clinic, and inpatient hospital and is designated by the Texas Department of State Health Services as a Level IV trauma center. Our mission is to improve the health and quality of life of the individuals and communities we serve. More information at dschd.org.