An adult in New Mexico has died following a measles infection, as confirmed by state health officials, though the direct cause of death has not been established. The deceased was unvaccinated and did not seek medical attention. This individual was from Lea County, adjacent to a West Texas area experiencing a measles outbreak with 159 cases and a recent child fatality, but New Mexico officials have not linked this to the Texas cases.
Lea County has reported ten measles cases, with seven unvaccinated individuals. The vaccination status of three others remains unknown. Six adult cases and four in children under 17 have been identified. The CDC has dispatched a team to Texas to assist with the outbreak response, which began in January.
Measles is highly contagious, with the virus capable of lingering in the air for two hours. According to the CDC, 90% of unvaccinated individuals exposed to the virus will likely contract it. The measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR) vaccine is highly effective in preventing the disease. It is recommended for children between 12 to 15 months and again between 4 to 6 years.
Dr. Chad Smelser, New Mexico’s deputy state epidemiologist, emphasized the importance of vaccination, stating that the MMR vaccine is the best defense against measles.
