The Paris-Lamar County Health District has identified four new cases of measles, making a total of 11 cases in Lamar County.
The Paris-Lamar County Health District is investigating cases and will continue to investigate cases that come in.
The Health District, with the support of (DSHS) Region 4/5, are actively investigating the cases and conducting contact tracing to identify possible exposures and limit further spread of the disease.
Due to the highly contagious nature of measles, additional cases may occur, especially in unvaccinated people.
“Measles is a serious yet preventable disease,” said Dr. Amanda Green, PLCHD local health authority. “Staying up to date on vaccinations is the most effective way to safeguard yourself, your loved ones, and the community from this highly contagious illness. With these recent cases, it’s more important than ever to ensure your immunizations are current.”
ABOUT MEASLES:
Measles is a highly contagious viral disease that spreads through coughing, sneezing or simply being near someone infected. The virus can linger in the air for up to two hours after an infected person has left an area, making it easy to contract in shared spaces.
SYMPTOMS:
- High fever
- Cough
- Runny nose
- Red, watery eyes
- Rash, typically starting on the face and spreading downward 2–5 days after initial symptoms
INFECTIOUS PERIOD:
People with measles can spread the virus from four days before the rash appears and to four days after the rash appears.
POTENTIAL COMPLICATIONS AND HIGH-RISK GROUPS:
While measles can infect anyone, complications can be severe and include ear infections, diarrhea, pneumonia, or, in rare cases, brain inflammation (encephalitis).
Those at the highest risk include:
- Infants and children under 5 years old
- Pregnant individuals
- People with weakened immune systems
PREVENTION:
Vaccination with the measles, mumps and rubella (MMR) vaccine is the most effective way to prevent measles.
- Two doses of the MMR vaccine provide a 97% protection rate and long-lasting immunity.
The Texas Department of State Health Services and Local Public Health officials recommend:
- The first dose at 12–15 months of age
- The second dose at 4–6 years of age
WHAT TO DO IF EXPOSED OR SYMPTOMATIC:
If you believe you have been exposed to measles or are experiencing symptoms:
- Isolate yourself immediately to prevent spreading the virus to others.
- Contact your healthcare provider by phone to arrange testing in a way that minimizes exposure to others.
- If you do not have a regular health provider, call your local health department at the number below.
- Watch for symptoms, which typically develop 7–21 days after exposure.
VACCINE ACCESS IN THE PARIS-LAMAR AREA:
Contact your primary care physician to see if they offer the MMR vaccine.
Free or low-cost vaccines are also available at the Paris-Lamar County Health District.
Please call 903-785-4561 regarding times and availability.
“We understand the concern that the community may have about Measles and vaccinations. Please do not hesitate to call your doctor or the Paris-Lamar County Health District at any time to discuss those concerns.”
CONTACTS:
Paris-Lamar County Health District — 903-785-4561
Alison Thrasher Allen — alisonT@plchd.com
Epidemiology Department — Gina Prestridge — ginap@suddenlinkmail.com
RESOURCES:
DSHS Measles Outbreak News Updates (this is updated on Tuesdays & Fridays)
DSHS Measles Outbreak Information
DSHS Measles FAQs
