Lubbock Public Health Confirms Measles Outbreak in Gaines County, Increased Risk for Unvaccinated Individuals

The Texas Department of State Health Services (DSHS) has confirmed six cases of measles in Gaines County and there are cases under investigation in surrounding counties. The majority of these cases are school-aged children and were identified with symptoms within the past two weeks. 

Due to the highly contagious nature of the virus, more cases are expected in Gaines County and surrounding areas. There are no confirmed exposure sites outside healthcare facilities in Lubbock County. The South Plains Public Health District, Lubbock Public Health and DSHS are working together to investigate the situation. 

Measles is highly contagious and can spread easily. The virus is a serious illness that can lead to severe complications. Early symptoms include fever, cough, runny nose, red eyes, and a red rash. The virus spreads through respiratory droplets and can remain infectious in the air for up to two hours. 

Symptoms:

Symptoms appear 7 to 21 days after contact with the virus, and may include:

• High fever
• Cough
• Runny nose
• Red, watery eyes
• 2-3 days after symptoms begin, tiny white spots (Koplik spots) may appear inside the mouth.
• 3-5 days after symptoms begin, a rash that appears flat and red may appear on the face and hairline. This rash tends to spread downward to the neck, trunk, arms, legs and feet.

What to do if exposed or symptomatic:

If you believe you have been exposed to measles or are experiencing symptoms:

• Isolate yourself immediately to prevent spreading the virus to others.
• Contact your healthcare provider by phone to arrange testing in a way that minimizes exposure to others (do not show up unannounced).
• Watch for symptoms, which typically develop 7 to 21 days after exposure.
• Citizens who have questions about what they should do can also call Lubbock Public Health at 806-775-2933.

What to do if you need immediate medical care: 

• Follow any signage on facility doors.
• Take protective measures such as wearing a mask when you enter the facility.
• Inform the front desk that you think you may have measles or if you’ve been around someone with confirmed measles. 
• Limit the number of people who enter the facility, if possible send one person inside to register. 

When to seek immediate emergency care:

• High fever (over 103°F).
• Severe cough or difficulty breathing.
• Signs of severe complications like seizures, confusion, or extreme fatigue/weakness.
• Dehydration.

The measles-mumps-rubella (MMR) vaccine, available at local health clinics and doctor’s offices, is the most effective way to prevent measles. Lubbock Public Health urges high risk unvaccinated individuals to consider getting vaccinated. If you’re unsure of your vaccination status or have questions, contact your healthcare provider. Anyone exposed to measles or experiencing symptoms should stay home and contact their provider for advice on testing and care. Lubbock Public Health will continue to monitor the outbreak and provide updates.