Measles Case In Southern New New Mexico Found

The City of El Paso Department of Public Health continues its efforts to prevent the spread of Measles after a 15-month-old boy was confirmed to have the disease in southern New Mexico. The investigation shows that the toddler recently traveled through our community via a flight from Europe. He is now in the recovery phase.

“The Department of Public Health first learned of this case late last week, and our immediate concern was for those who may have been exposed through close contact with the child,” said Michael Hill, Health Director. “We now want to make sure all children and adults exposed are vaccinated against measles in order to prevent more cases” said Michael Hill, Health Director.

Anyone who suspects that they may have been exposed to measles, or who believe they have the illness, are asked to call their primary medical provider in order to be seen without exposing others to the disease. Infants less than a year old, women who are pregnant, and those with compromised immune systems are most susceptible to contract the disease.

The following information is provided by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC):

Cause

Measles is a respiratory disease caused by a virus. The disease of measles and the virus that causes it share the same name. The disease is also called Rubeola. Measles virus normally grows in the cells that line the back of the throat and lungs.

Symptoms

Measles causes fever, runny nose, cough and a rash all over the body.

Complications

About one out of 10 children with measles also gets an ear infection, and up to one out of 20 gets pneumonia. About one out of 1,000 gets encephalitis, and one or two out of 1,000 die. Other rash-causing diseases often confused with measles include Roseola (Roseola Infantum) and Rubella (German measles).

While measles is almost eradicated from the United States, it still kills nearly 200,000 people each year around the world. Measles can provoke miscarriages or premature birth in pregnant women.

Transmission

Measles spreads through the air by breathing, coughing or sneezing. It is so contagious that anyone who is exposed and has not developed immunity to the disease will most likely contract the virus.

More information can be found by visiting: http://www.cdc.gov/measles/about/overview.html

For information on the Department’s Immunization Program, or to make an appointment, please call (915) 771-5822.

Source: City of El Paso Department of Health.