San Antonio Faces Measles Alert as Cases Spike

News Summary

San Antonio is experiencing a measles alert after confirmed cases in Texas have surged to 146. The local health district has issued warnings about possible exposures at various public locations where an infected individual visited, and precautions are being taken to monitor close contacts. Residents are urged to be aware of symptoms and vaccination guidelines as the community works to manage this health concern.

San Antonio Faces Measles Alert as Cases Spike

San Antonio is buzzing with concern as the number of confirmed measles cases in Texas has climbed to a staggering 146. The San Antonio Metropolitan Health District (Metro Health) is issuing a friendly but serious heads-up about potential exposure that could impact thousands of individuals following a recent incident involving an infected person who visited popular local spots.

Recent Exposure Locations

On February 15, the infected individual traveled to the following places:

• University of Texas at San Antonio (UTSA) Main Campus from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.
• A wax museum and Ripley’s Believe It or Not! attractions at Alamo Plaza from 2:30 p.m. to 5:30 p.m.
• Mr. Crabby’s Seafood and Bar in Live Oak from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m.

Here’s the kicker: measles can linger in the air for up to two hours after an infected person leaves a location, which means anyone who was in these spots during those times may have been exposed. The potential risk is real!

Precautions Being Taken

In response, UTSA has sent out urgent notifications to students and staff alerting them to the risk of exposure. Over 20 individuals identified as close contacts from the other locations are being closely monitored. The good news is, the majority of these contacts are vaccinated and currently showing no symptoms.

Symptoms and Timeline

Measles symptoms generally appear between 7 to 21 days after exposure, so those who might have come into contact with the infected person should be on the lookout for any signs of illness. The latest possible date for symptoms to show up is March 8.

Historical Context

It’s worth noting that Bexar County, where San Antonio resides, has reported only four measles cases since 2019. Normally, vaccination coverage for the measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR) vaccine among kindergarteners in this area sits at 94%, just shy of the ideal 95%. This small gap in vaccination coverage could pose risks, especially for high-risk groups like children under 5, pregnant women, and those with ongoing health issues.

Serious Risks of Measles

Measles isn’t to be taken lightly; serious complications can arise, including pneumonia and even encephalitis. This is why Metro Health recommends everyone keep a close eye on symptoms. If someone feels unwell, it’s best they stay home and reach out to their healthcare provider instead of making an unannounced visit.

The Importance of Vaccination

For those with known exposure to the measles, it’s vital to consider getting vaccinated within 72 hours to stave off any illness. The MMR vaccine has been shown to be 97% effective in preventing measles, making it a key tool in keeping the community healthy.

A Distinction Worth Mentioning

It’s important to distinguish between measles (Rubeola) and German measles (Rubella). The latter tends to have milder symptoms and is less contagious than the former, so awareness is crucial.

Next Steps for the Community

According to Texas law, any diagnosed measles cases must be reported to health authorities, and Metro Health is ramping up monitoring efforts, especially in areas where healthcare provider coverage is lacking. They’re organizing pop-up vaccination clinics to make it easier for the community to get vaccinated, ensuring that everyone stays safe.

Final Words on Masks

Currently, Metro Health is not suggesting that everyone rush to wear masks unless they are known close contacts or showing symptoms. But staying informed and vaccinated is a simple step every resident can take to keep themselves and their loved ones safe.

As the situation develops, San Antonio residents are urged to keep informed and take any necessary precautions. Together, we can keep this beautiful city healthy!

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Additional Resources

• News 4 San Antonio: German Measles Confirmed
• Wikipedia: Measles
• KSAT: Potential Measles Exposure
• Google Search: San Antonio Measles Outbreak
• San Antonio Current: Rubella Case Reported
• Google Scholar: Measles Outbreak
• CBS Austin: Rubella Confirmed
• Encyclopedia Britannica: Measles
• KHOU: First Measles Case in San Antonio
• Google News: Measles San Antonio