SANTA FE – The New Mexico Department of Health (NMDOH) has officially declared a measles outbreak in Lea County, New Mexico, following the confirmation of additional cases. On Thursday, laboratory tests conducted by the NMDOH Scientific Laboratory Division confirmed that two adult residents of Lea County tested positive for measles. This brings the total number of confirmed measles cases in Lea County this week to three, meeting the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s (CDC) criteria for a measles outbreak.
The location of the Lea County cases is particularly noteworthy as it borders Gaines County in Texas, where a significant surge in measles cases has been reported. In Gaines County, Texas, the number of cases has dramatically increased from 2 to 48 in just two weeks. While health officials suspect a connection between the outbreaks in Texas and Lea County, New Mexico, investigations are ongoing to confirm any epidemiological links.
Dr. Chad Smelser, Deputy State Epidemiologist at NMDOH, emphasized the urgency of the situation. “We are diligently investigating every suspected case of measles in Lea County, New Mexico,” Dr. Smelser stated. “It is crucial that individuals experiencing symptoms consistent with measles seek medical attention promptly. Early detection and isolation are key to controlling the spread of this highly contagious disease.”
The New Mexico Department of Health is actively engaged in contact tracing, notifying individuals who may have been exposed to measles, and providing comprehensive guidance on prevention measures. Public health officials have released a list of locations and specific times where potential measles exposure may have occurred in Lea County, New Mexico. If you were present at any of the following locations during the specified periods, it is important to monitor yourself for measles symptoms:
- Stone Elementary School, Hobbs, NM on Thursday, February 6th.
- Albertsons grocery store, located at 2402 N. Grimes St., Hobbs, NM, between 1:00 PM and 11:30 PM on Thursday, February 6th.
- Albertsons grocery store, 2402 N. Grimes St., Hobbs, NM, between 1:00 PM and 11:30 PM on Saturday, February 8th.
- Crosswinds Community Church, situated at 1701 N Jefferson St., Hobbs, NM, between 9:00 AM and 2:15 PM on Sunday, February 9th.
- Walgreens, located at 801 Joe Harvey Blvd, Hobbs, NM, between 3:00 PM and 6:00 PM on Sunday, February 9th.
- Nor-Lea Hospital emergency department between 9:00 AM and 3:00 PM on Monday, February 10th.
- Nor-Lea Hospital extended hours clinic, located at 1923 N Dal Paso, Hobbs, NM, between 8:00 AM and 3:00 PM on Monday, February 10th.
- Nor-Lea Hospital emergency department between 1:00 PM and 3:00 PM on Tuesday, February 11th.
Individuals who visited these locations in Lea County, New Mexico, during the listed times should be vigilant in monitoring for measles symptoms. Should you develop symptoms, it is imperative to isolate yourself immediately and contact your healthcare provider by phone before visiting their office or an emergency room. Inform your healthcare provider about your potential exposure to measles so they can take necessary precautions to prevent further spread within healthcare settings.
The Critical Importance of Measles Vaccination in Lea County, New Mexico
Vaccination remains the most effective way to prevent measles infection and control outbreaks. The measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR) vaccine is highly effective, significantly reducing the risk of contracting measles compared to unvaccinated individuals who lack immunity. Individuals born before 1957 are generally considered immune to measles due to widespread exposure to the virus before vaccination programs were established.
However, certain adult populations are considered high-risk and require two doses of the MMR vaccine to ensure adequate protection. These high-risk groups include college students, healthcare personnel, and international travelers. While vaccination offers strong protection against measles, it is still possible, though less likely, to develop symptoms even after vaccination if exposed to the virus. If vaccinated individuals in Lea County, New Mexico, experience measles symptoms following potential exposure, they should consult a healthcare provider for guidance. It’s important to note that most adults vaccinated as children are presumed to have lifelong immunity.
For children, the recommended MMR vaccination schedule involves two doses: the first dose at 12 months of age and the second dose between 4 and 6 years old. Ensuring children in Lea County, New Mexico, receive both recommended doses of the MMR vaccine is crucial for community-wide protection against measles.
Understanding Measles Symptoms and Risks in Lea County, New Mexico
Measles symptoms typically appear within 7 to 21 days after exposure to the virus. Initial symptoms of measles often include fever, cough, runny nose, and red, watery eyes (conjunctivitis). These early symptoms are followed by the hallmark sign of measles: a distinctive red, spotted rash. The rash usually begins on the head or face and then spreads downwards to cover the rest of the body.
Measles can lead to serious health complications, particularly in unvaccinated individuals. Common complications include diarrhea, ear infections (otitis media), and pneumonia. Alarmingly, approximately 1 in 5 unvaccinated people in the United States who contract measles require hospitalization due to the severity of the illness or its complications.
Free Measles Vaccination Clinics Available in Lea County, New Mexico
To enhance access to measles vaccination during this outbreak, the New Mexico Department of Health is offering free measles vaccination clinics in Lea County, New Mexico. No appointments are necessary at the five public health vaccination clinics scheduled over the next two weeks. However, individuals experiencing measles symptoms are advised to call the clinic before visiting to receive guidance and prevent potential spread at the clinic.
Hobbs Public Health Office: (575) 397-2463
Lovington Public Health Office: (575) 396-2853
Free Measles Vaccination Clinic Schedule:
- Saturday, February 15th, 10:00 AM – 2:00 PM: Hobbs Public Health Office, 1923 N. Dal Paso.
- Wednesday, February 19th, 9:00 AM – 3:30 PM (closed noon to 1:00 PM): Hobbs Public Health Office, 1923 N. Dal Paso.
- Thursday, February 20th, 9:00 AM – 3:30 PM (closed noon to 1:00 PM): Lovington Public Health Office, 302 N. 5th Street.
- Wednesday, February 26th, 9:00 AM – 3:30 PM (closed noon to 1:00 PM): Hobbs Public Health Office, 1923 N. Dal Paso.
- Thursday, February 27th, 9:00 AM – 3:30 PM (closed noon to 1:00 PM): Hobbs Public Health Office, 1923 N. Dal Paso.
How to Access Measles Vaccination in Lea County, New Mexico
For insured individuals, the first step to getting vaccinated against measles is to check with your primary medical provider or local pharmacy. Public health offices in Lea County, New Mexico, also offer measles vaccinations for adults, while supplies last. Children’s vaccines are available free of charge through the Vaccines for Children (VFC) program.
Verifying Your Vaccination Records in New Mexico
It is important to know your vaccination status, especially during a measles outbreak in Lea County, New Mexico. You can access your vaccination records through the state’s Vax View website. Alternatively, you can call the NMHealth Helpline at 1-833-SWNURSE (1-833-796-8773) for assistance. The helpline can also provide information on vaccination locations and assist medical providers in reporting suspected measles cases.
This measles outbreak in Lea County, New Mexico, marks the state’s first cases since 2024, when two cases were reported. Prior to 2024, the last reported measles cases in New Mexico were in 2021. Public health officials are working diligently to contain this outbreak and protect the community in Lea County, New Mexico, and emphasize the critical role of vaccination in preventing the spread of measles.
Image alt text: Public health officials issue alert for measles outbreak in Lea County, New Mexico, urging vaccination and awareness after confirmed cases near Texas border.
