If you were in the area and think you might have been exposed to measles, it’s important to get in touch with your healthcare provider as soon as possible and keep an eye out for any symptoms.
MANSFIELD, Texas — Tarrant County health officials have reported their first confirmed measles cases linked to an exposure at Methodist Mansfield ER.
A press release indicated that exposure occurred between 8 p.m. on Tuesday, April 29, and 3 a.m. on Wednesday, April 30. The confirmed cases involve an unvaccinated adult and a child from the same household. The source of the infection is still under investigation, according to Tarrant County Public Health (TCPH).
TCPH advises that anyone who was present during that time and believes they may have contracted measles should reach out to their healthcare provider immediately and monitor for symptoms.
Additionally, TCPH is actively looking into potential other exposure sites and contacts during the infectious periods of the individuals involved and will provide more information as it becomes available.
A spokesperson from the Methodist Health System said on Saturday:
“The health and safety of our patients, visitors, and employees is our top priority. Methodist Mansfield Medical Center is working closely with Tarrant County Public Health to identify anyone who might be affected.”
What is measles?
The Centers for Disease Control (CDC) describes measles as a highly contagious virus that can lead to severe health problems. According to the CDC, “Anyone who is not protected against measles is at risk,” emphasizing that two doses of the MMR vaccine offer the best defense against the virus.
What are the symptoms of measles?
Typically, measles symptoms appear 7 to 14 days after exposure, the CDC notes.
- High fever (which may exceed 104°)
- Cough
- Runny nose
- Red, watery eyes or conjunctivitis
- Tiny white spots may show up in the mouth two to three days after symptoms start
A rash usually develops three to five days after the initial symptoms, beginning as flat red spots at the hairline and spreading downwards to the neck, trunk, arms, legs, and feet.
- Small raised bumps may form on top of the flat red spots.
- The spots can merge as they spread.
- When the rash emerges, fever may rise above 104° Fahrenheit.
How does measles spread?
Measles spreads through respiratory droplets and the air when an infected person breathes, coughs, or sneezes, as noted by the Texas Department of State Health Services. It’s worth noting that the virus can remain contagious in the air for up to two hours after the infected person leaves the area.
The symptoms don’t appear until a week, sometimes two weeks, after exposure. Moreover, those infected can be contagious about four days before any symptoms show.
What should you do if you’ve been exposed to measles?
The Texas Department of State Health Services offers advice for individuals who suspect they’ve been exposed to measles.
- Stay home from work, school, and other group settings until four days after the rash starts.
- Isolate yourself, particularly if you haven’t been vaccinated.
- Contact your doctor beforehand if you plan to get tested so they can prepare.
- Kids who aren’t vaccinated should be kept out of schools and childcare for at least 21 days following exposure to someone with measles, as per Texas regulations.
For further information about school attendance, you can find details on duration and return guidelines online.
What are the risks associated with measles?
Measles can lead to serious health issues, especially in children under five. Common complications include ear infections and diarrhea, while more severe complications can include pneumonia and encephalitis, according to the CDC.
“This age group is where most hospitalizations and complications occur. Again, this mainly affects unvaccinated children under five. Historically, adults tend to be immune due to vaccinations because measles has been rare,” said Dr. Carla Garcia Carreno, Director for Infection Prevention and Control at Children’s Medical Center Plano.
Risks for hospitalization and complications during pregnancy are also notable.
Those at greater risk also include pregnant women and individuals with weakened immune systems, such as those suffering from leukemia or HIV.
When should you get vaccinated for measles?
The CDC noted that measles was eradicated in the U.S. in 2000 and has since been reported infrequently. They emphasize that vaccination is the best way to protect against the virus.
For children, the CDC recommends two doses of the MMR vaccine — the first at 12 to 15 months old, and the second at 4 to 6 years old. The second dose can be administered earlier if at least 28 days have passed since the first dose.
For students in post-high school institutions who haven’t been vaccinated, a series of two MMR doses is suggested, spaced at least 28 days apart.
Adults without the vaccine should consider receiving at least one MMR dose.
Complete vaccination schedules and additional information can be found online.
Whitworth advises that families with infants too young for the vaccine should take special precautions.
“Ensure that parents’ and siblings’ vaccinations are current. If grandparents are caring for those kids, their vaccinations also need to be up to date,” she mentioned. “Avoid contact with anyone showing symptoms like a cough, runny nose, red eyes, or a rash. Steer clear of anyone who is sick.”
