EL PASO, Texas (KTSM) – Wastewater in Deming has tested positive for measles, according to an analysis by the New Mexico Department of Health (NMDOH).
The sample, which was taken on June 10, is part of a wastewater testing initiative the NMDOH is conducting in 11 treatment facilities around the state since mid-March, according to the news release by the department.
The department conducts weekly wastewater measles testing in Albuquerque/Bernalillo County, Carlsbad, Chaparral, Deming, Las Cruces, Portales, Rincon, Rio Rancho, Roswell, Santa Fe, and the South Central Wastewater Treatment Plant in Doña Ana County.
The NMDOH said that while the testing does not confirm the timing, location, or number of people infected with measles, it can serve as an early warning system that the measles virus is likely active in the area.
“This detection tells us there was at least one person infectious with measles in Deming on June 10 that has gone undiagnosed,” Dr. Daniel Sosin, NMDOH medical epidemiologist, said. “We expect that there may be more cases in Luna County in the coming days.”
There are currently 81 measles cases reported in New Mexico, the NMDOH said.
The wastewater sample does not represent an official measles case, but the positive sample is a reminder for Luna County residents to check their vaccination status for measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR), the NMDOH added.
The NMDOH said that to date, 36,011 New Mexicans have received MMR shots, which is considered the best protection against the measles virus, since February 1.
Measles symptoms develop between seven to 21 days after exposure, and include fever, cough, runny nose, and red eyes, followed by a red spotted rash that usually starts on the head or face and spreads down the body, the NMDOH said.
The NMDOH said people can pass measles to someone else anywhere between four days before to four days after the rash is gone.
If you develop symptoms of measles, the NMDOH urges the importance to stay home to prevent further spread and contact your healthcare provider or the NMDOH Helpline at 1-833-SWNURSE (1-833-796-8773) for further guidance.
For more information about measles, visit http://measles.doh.nm.gov/.
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