News Summary
San Antonio residents may have been exposed to measles after a visitor from Gaines County tested positive following Valentine’s Day weekend. The individual visited UTSA and several downtown attractions, raising concerns in a city that reported its last case in 2017. Health officials urge vigilance and vaccinations to prevent outbreaks as they monitor the situation closely.
San Antonio Faces Measles Exposure Risk After Visitor Tests Positive Post-Valentine’s Day Weekend
It’s been a buzzing time in San Antonio lately, and not just because of its vibrant culture and festivities. Many residents might have been unknowingly exposed to the highly contagious disease, measles, during the romantic Valentine’s Day weekend. Alarm bells started ringing when a visitor from Gaines County, Texas, tested positive for the virus after spending time in the city.
Where Did the Exposure Occur?
This visitor was at the University of Texas at San Antonio (UTSA) on February 15, specifically between 10 a.m. and 2 p.m. for an open house event. Imagine mingling with hundreds of other eager students and families while unknowingly being near someone with measles! Later that day, this individual took a tour of some downtown attractions, including stops at Ripley’s Believe It or Not, Ripley’s Illusion Lab, and Louis Tussaud’s Waxworks from 2:30 p.m. to 5:30 p.m.
As if that wasn’t enough exploring, dinner was enjoyed at Mr. Crabby’s Seafood and Bar in Live Oak from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. Just for good measure, the next day, February 16, the infected person visited Buc-ee’s in New Braunfels. Talk about a jam-packed itinerary!
What Are the Health Officials Saying?
Health officials are taking this situation seriously. With late January data showing 90 measles cases confirmed across seven Texas counties, including a staggering 57 cases out of Gaines County affecting mainly school-age children, vigilance is key. The last measles case reported in San Antonio dates back to 2017, which, while a positive sign for the city’s health efforts, doesn’t negate the current risk.
San Antonio currently boasts a measles vaccination rate at about 94%. However, health experts note that to fend off outbreaks effectively, this number needs to creep into the “high 90s.” It’s crucial to understand that measles spreads easily through the air and can lead to severe health issues, particularly for vulnerable groups like pregnant women, infants, young children, and anyone with a weakened immune system.
What To Look Out For
Be on guard for any symptoms of measles, which can manifest as a high fever, a cough, a rash that typically starts on the face, and white spots in the mouth. If you’ve been in any of the places visited by the infected individual during those dates, it’s wise to keep a close eye on your health.
UTSA and Community Response
In light of the potential exposure, UTSA has proactively informed its community about the situation. Students and staff have been advised to monitor their health for signs of measles symptoms. So, if you’re part of the UTSA family or often visit the campus, make sure you’re aware and take any necessary steps to protect yourself and those around you.
So What Happens Now?
As of now, the City of San Antonio’s Metropolitan Health District has confirmed no local infections linked to this exposure have been reported, which is a comforting bit of news. Nonetheless, it’s better to be safe than sorry. Getting vaccinated is the best way to ensure lasting protection against measles.
In summary, San Antonio is buzzing with activity, but vigilance is key. Make sure to stay informed, check to see if your vaccinations are up-to-date, and keep an eye out for any unusual symptoms. Health is wealth, and taking small preventative measures can go a long way in keeping you and your community safe.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Cibolo’s Legacy Traditional School Reports Case of Rubella
Measles Alert Raises Concerns at Texas Universities
University of Texas at San Antonio Alerts Community of Measles Exposure
Low Vaccination Rates Raise Concerns in San Antonio Schools
Measles Exposure Alert for University Community
San Antonio School Districts Prepare for Icy Weather Conditions
San Antonio Schools Facing Heating Challenges Amid Cold Weather
Cibolo Charter School Measles Case Raises Concerns
Clarification on Measles Miscommunication at Legacy Traditional School
University Community in San Antonio Addresses Measles Risk
Additional Resources
- KENS 5: Measles San Antonio Texas
- Wikipedia: Measles
- News 4 San Antonio: German Measles in San Antonio
- Google Search: Measles San Antonio
- KSAT: No Measles Case at Cibolo Charter School
- Google Scholar: Measles San Antonio
- Dallas News: Texas Measles Outbreak
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Measles
- ABC News: Texas Measles Outbreak
- Google News: Measles San Antonio
