The number of people with measles in Texas is increasing, and as of March 1, The Texas Department of State Health Services said cases span over nine counties. Most of the cases are in children who live in rural, West Texas, but one exposure has been reported in San Antonio.
The best way to prevent measles and protect your child is by getting two doses of the measles-mumps-rubella (MMR) vaccine. It has been in use for almost 50 years and is very safe and effective. Children may get the measles, mumps, rubella, and varicella (MMRV) vaccine instead, which protects against chickenpox too.
Vaccination Guidelines:
Here are vaccination guidelines from The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). Most people who are vaccinated with MMR & MMRV will be protected for life.
- Children need 2 doses of MMR vaccines:
- 12–15 months old (1st dose)
- 4–6 years old (2nd dose)
- Children 12 months through 12 years of age may be given 2 doses of MMRV vaccine instead of MMR. Each dose is usually given at:
- 12–15 months old (1st dose)
- 4–6 years old (2nd dose – can also be given 3 months after 1st dose)
The MMR vaccine protects your child from measles, mumps, and rubella, potentially serious diseases caused by viruses. Almost everyone who has not had the MMR vaccine will get sick if they are exposed to those viruses.
Click here for CDC vaccine guidance for older children, adolescents, and adults.
Click here for CDC vaccine guidance for anyone traveling internationally or at increased risk.
What is Measles and How Does it Spread?
Some people think of measles as just a little rash and fever that clear up in a few days. But measles can cause serious health complications, especially in children younger than 5 years old.
Measles is highly contagious. If one person has it, up to 9 out of 10 people nearby will become infected if they are not protected. It spreads through the air when an infected person coughs or sneezes. You can get measles just by being in a room where a person with measles has been. This can happen even up to 2 hours after that person has left.
What are the Symptoms?
Measles symptoms appear 7 to 14 days after contact with the virus. Common measles symptoms include:
- High fever (may spike to more than 104° F)
- Cough
- Runny nose (coryza)
- Red, watery eyes (conjunctivitis)
- Rash
Is it Dangerous?
Yes. Measles can cause serious health complications, especially in children younger than 5 years of age. Common complications are ear infections and diarrhea. Serious complications include pneumonia and encephalitis (a serious brain inflammation).
Who is Most at Risk?
Measles can be serious in all age groups. However, there are several groups that are more likely to get very sick from measles complications:
- Children younger than age 5
- Adults older than age 20
- Pregnant women
- People with weakened immune systems, such as from leukemia or HIV infection
What Else Do I Need to Know?
- If you think you or your child may have been exposed or are showing symptoms, please contact your health care provider immediately. Tell your provider that you or your child may have measles or have been exposed. Your doctor will give you instructions on how to come to the office for diagnosis.
- If your child was exposed and has not been immunized, your pediatrician or doctor may give them the MMR vaccine within 72 hours of exposure or in some cases, antibodies, to make the illness less severe.
- If you have questions about your child’s vaccine status, don’t hesitate to call your child’s doctor or pediatrician. Community First Health Plans covers the cost of the MMR and MMRV vaccine. If you are do not have health insurance, you can get an MMR vaccine at a Federally Qualified Health Center (FQHC) or make an appointment at the Metro Health Immunization Clinic. Metro Health is also holding pop-up vaccine clinics where individuals can receive the MMR vaccine.
- If you’d like a copy of your or your child’s vaccination record, your health care provider, child’s school, the Texas Department of State Health Services (DSHS), and Metro Health may be able to provide immunization records. Find details about the options for requesting your immunization records.
Resources for Community First Members:
- Earn gift card rewards for getting your child vaccinated and completing other healthy actions*
- Book no-cost transportation to checkups, appointments to get vaccines, and other medical appointments*
- Find a provider near you
- Login or create a Community First Member Portal account
- Sign up for the Community First Member enewsletter for news alerts and important Member information
*Limitations and restrictions apply. For more information, please call 210-358-6055 or email healthyhelp@cfhp.com.
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