02/27/2025
As most of you are aware, there is an ongoing measles outbreak in West Texas, now having spread to San Antonio. The current outbreak in rural West Texas has at least 124 cases, almost all in unvaccinated children. There is no need to panic as the people who are affected are those that are not vaccinated against the measles.
As of now, people vaccinated against the measles after 1968, are protected against this disease. For those born between 1957 and 1968, you were all vaccinated and are presumed protected, but that vaccine was different from the one introduced in 1968.
The following groups are presumed immune and do NOT need a booster
1. Those born before 1957 and received the "old" vaccine.
2. Those who were born after 1968 and have had 2 doses of a vaccine called MMR.
3. Those who have evidence of immunity on blood test.
4. Those who have already had the measles in the past.
THERE IS NO RECOMMENDATION TO SCREEN EVERYONE FOR MEASLES.
If someone is exposed, contact the health department or your physician's office. Generally, the rule is to check a blood test to see if you have immunity against the measles. If you do not have immunity against the measles, it might be recommended that you get a booster.
We are waiting to hear more from the CDC on further recommendations.
