A measles outbreak in West Texas has claimed its first life, as a patient hospitalized with the virus has passed away. The death was confirmed by Melissa Whitfield, a spokesperson for Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center, on Wednesday. The age of the deceased has not been released.
This tragic development comes as the measles outbreak continues to spread across the region. As of Tuesday, the Texas Department of State Health Services reported 124 cases across nine counties in West Texas, with an additional nine cases in eastern New Mexico.
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The outbreak is largely concentrated within the Mennonite community, where travel between small towns for work, church, and daily errands has facilitated the spread of the virus.
Measles is a highly contagious respiratory virus that can linger in the air for up to two hours. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) states that up to 90% of susceptible individuals exposed to the virus will become infected.
While most children recover from measles, it can lead to serious complications such as pneumonia, blindness, brain swelling, and even death.
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Health officials are urging residents to ensure they are vaccinated against measles and to take precautions to prevent the further spread of the virus. This includes practicing good hygiene, covering coughs and sneezes, and staying home when sick.
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