What El Pasoans need to know about Measles
EL PASO, Texas (KVIA) -- Health experts are emphasizing that children need two doses of the measles, mumps and rubella (MMR) vaccine to be fully protected.
Some children and adults in the region have only received their first dose, or none at all, leaving them at higher risk of contracting the viral disease.
Vaccination clinics are parents to ensure their children have received both doses to help prevent the spread of measles in the community.
Local schools, government monitor Measles cases
“We cannot stress enough the importance of measles vaccination,” said Department of Public Health Director Vinny Taneja. “Measles is a highly contagious respiratory illness that can lead to severe complications, especially for those who are unvaccinated. We strongly urge parents to ensure their children are protected.”
Health officials have begun contact tracing efforts to mitigate the spread of the virus. State health officials have been notified about the spread as well.
“We’ve been preparing for this moment and cautioning the public that it was only a matter of time,” City-County Health Authority Dr. Hector Ocaranza said. “Diseases like measles do not respect borders. We must remain vigilant and proactive to protect our community, especially our most vulnerable residents.”
Several school districts across the Borderland shared their plans to address the disease.
El Paso Independent School District Spokesperson:
“El Paso ISD is aware of the regional measles cases and prioritizes the well-being of our students and staff. While there are currently no reported cases within our district, we are closely monitoring the situation and are in regular communication with local health authorities. We will continue to follow all recommended health protocols and guidance provided by the City of El Paso Department of Public Health.”
Fabens Independent School District Spokesperson:
"Fabens ISD is closely monitoring the measles situation and remains committed to the health and safety of our students, staff, and community. We are working in coordination with local health authorities to track any potential cases and are prepared to take immediate action if needed. Our schools are following all state health guidelines, and we continue to promote vaccination awareness and best practices to help prevent the spread of illness."
Ysleta Independent School District Spokesperson:
Ysleta ISD is working very closely with our local health department on this issue. Should any of our students test positive for measles, we will collaborate with the health department on contact tracing and follow their guidelines on isolation/exclusion from school. In addition, our district has:
- Identified students claiming a vaccination exemption
- Identified/notified parents of students who are not up-to-date on MMR vaccine
- Ensured all campuses have personal protective equipment (PPE) and an isolation room/area available for suspected cases
- Disseminated measles information to parents and staff in school newsletters
In an interview with ABC-7, Canutillo ISD Spokesperson Gustavo Reveles said the district wanted to be proactive in their action.
"We immediately took action and started training with our nurses on best practices," he said.
Reveles also said every parent would be sent an informational email explaining what symptoms to look out for and what to do if there's an active case in their family.
