EL PASO, Texas (KTSM) — The New Mexico Department of Health has declared the state’s measles outbreak to be over.
The outbreak started on Feb. 14 in Lea County and the last cases were reported in Santa Fe County on Aug. 14, the NMDOH said.
Public health authorities consider a measles outbreak over when 42 days pass without new cases, a timeframe that represents twice the virus’ maximum incubation period, NMDOH said.
“We are thankful to the thousands of New Mexicans who received their measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR) vaccine,” said Dr. Chad Smelser, New Mexico Department of Health acting state epidemiologist. “Fully vaccinated people and those who got caught up with their vaccines during this outbreak prevented it from spreading further.”
One hundred cases of measles were identified during this outbreak, which was New Mexico’s first measles outbreak since 1996, and its largest in decades, NMDOH said.
The outbreak began in Lea County, likely from exposures to an outbreak in neighboring West Texas, NMDOH said.
New Mexicans stepped up to protect their communities, with over 56,000 people receiving an MMR vaccine since Feb. 1, NMDOH said.
The MMR vaccine is still widely available in New Mexico for anyone who wants it.
“Measles is extremely contagious. It can lead to dangerous complications like pneumonia and encephalitis and leaves people more vulnerable to other infections. However, two doses of the MMR vaccine are 97% effective at preventing the disease,” NMDOH said.
Measles outbreaks are continuing in the United States and around the world. People should check their MMR vaccination status, especially if they are considering travel outside New Mexico.
If you’re experiencing fever and rash, contact your doctor or emergency department first to tell them you are worried about measles so they can plan for your visit.
You can also call the NMDOH Helpline at 1-833-SWNURSE (1-833-796-8773). The helpline is staffed by nurses who can provide guidance in English and Spanish related to measles and vaccination questions.
For more information, click here.
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