AUSTIN, Texas — Health officials are sounding the alarm as a measles outbreak that began in West Texas has escalated to 90 cases, with over 16 hospitalizations reported. The outbreak, described by medical experts as the worst in decades, has now reached Hays County, where the first exposure was reported in San Marcos and at Texas State University.
Dr. Desmar Walkes, Austin/Travis County Medical Director, emphasized the severity of the situation, noting the highly contagious nature of measles.
“It can cause very severe disease, particularly in unvaccinated people,” Walkes said. “It can infect children particularly and cause them to be sick enough and require hospitalization, even be in ICU.”
Residents like Chephireh Carter are expressing concern about the potential spread of measles throughout Austin. Carter stressed the importance of vaccination.
“They should take the proper measures in protecting themselves, maybe have a second thought about getting immunized,” Carter said.
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Dr. Walkes highlighted that individuals vaccinated between 1963 and 1969 might not be fully protected, as some vaccines from that period did not include the live virus. The Hays County Health Department confirmed that this was the case with the person exposed in San Marcos. Walkes advised those vaccinated during that time to consult their medical providers for a booster.
“It’s a when particularly if we have people who are unvaccinated who are exposed to measles,” Walkes said.
Currently, there are no reported cases of measles in Travis County, but health officials warn that it is only a matter of time. Walkes urged residents to get vaccinated to safeguard against the disease.
“We know that vaccines work. We know they’re safe. Now’s the time to go get vaccinated,” Walkes said.
For more information on how and where to get vaccinated, residents are encouraged to contact Austin Public Health.