AUSTIN, Texas — Officials have announced the identification of a measles case in Austin.

In a Friday press conference, Austin Public Health disclosed that an unvaccinated infant was exposed to the measles virus while abroad. The child’s family is fully vaccinated.

Authorities have completed contact tracing and do not anticipate any further exposures. The child and family are currently isolated at home.

“This certainly increases our concern and our readiness; however, we’ve been prepared,” stated Dr. Desmar Walkes, Austin Travis County Public Health Authority. “Over the past year, we have been proactively planning for the potential of a measles outbreak due to declining vaccination rates. We are urging unvaccinated individuals to get vaccinated now to safeguard their health.”

Dr. Walkes clarified that this case is not connected to a measles outbreak in the South Plains region, where 146 cases have been documented as of February 28. Twenty individuals have been hospitalized, and tragically, one unvaccinated child has died — the first measles fatality in the U.S. in a decade.

Measles is extremely contagious, spreading through the air when an infected person coughs or sneezes. According to health experts, if one person is infected, up to 90% of those nearby who are not vaccinated can contract the virus.

“The measles virus can linger in the air and on surfaces for up to two hours after the infected individual has exited the space,” Dr. Walkes warned. “Those with direct contact through coughing or sneezing should monitor for symptoms for up to 21 days following exposure.”

Local health officials emphasize that while there is no immediate local outbreak, it is crucial for the community to take precautionary measures and stay prepared.

The MMR (measles-mumps-rubella) vaccine is highly effective in preventing measles. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), one dose of the MMR vaccine provides a 93% effectiveness rate against measles, and two doses raise that to 97%.

“We know the best way to tackle this situation is by increasing our vaccination rates as a community. Together we can protect public health,” said Travis County Judge Andy Brown. “The solution is simple: get vaccinated if you haven’t already.”

State health data reveals that Travis County’s MMR vaccination coverage among kindergarteners is just below 90%. Experts indicate that a herd immunity level of 95% is necessary to effectively combat outbreaks.

Local leaders express concern over the vaccination rates at certain schools, noting that rates below 90% increase the risk of an outbreak by 51%.

“We are actively collaborating with school administrators to increase vaccinations,” Dr. Walkes indicated. “We’re hosting clinics, and our outreach team is educating families about the vaccine. Our efforts will continue until we successfully convey the message to those who need to hear it.”

Health officials recommend that children as young as one year old receive their first MMR vaccine dose, with the second dose administered between ages four and six.

“If parents ensure their children are vaccinated on schedule at ages 12 to 15 months and again at 4 to 6, we wouldn’t be facing this issue,” Brown stated. “Failing to vaccinate puts infants and the entire community at risk, affecting public health and the economy.”

If traveling to areas with measles outbreaks, Dr. Walkes advises vaccinating children as young as six months. She noted that guidelines may be adjusted should further cases arise in the Austin area.

“If there is an outbreak with three or more cases in our community, we will update our guidance,” Dr. Walkes warned.

According to the Texas Department of State Health Services (DSHS), among the 146 reported measles cases, 98 occurred in Gaines County, with another 21 cases in neighboring Terry County. Most infected individuals are children.

DSHS reports that of the 146 affected individuals, 79 were unvaccinated, 62 had unknown vaccination status, and five had received at least one dose of the MMR vaccine.

While there isn’t currently a localized outbreak, Dr. Walkes and her team remain vigilant in preparation for the worst while hoping for the best.

“We have been in constant communication with our hospital partners and clinics, ensuring they are ready to respond to any reports of measles symptoms,” Dr. Walkes stated.

As the South by Southwest (SXSW) festival approaches, local officials are concerned about potential large gatherings. They are encouraging unvaccinated residents to get vaccinated promptly to avoid turning the event into a super spreader scenario. The city and health department are collaborating with event organizers to implement health precautions.

“We are working closely with Austin Special Events to strategize health precautions for this festival,” Dr. Walkes noted. “Our team has been in touch with city businesses and event coordinators.”

Those interested in receiving the MMR vaccine can visit their doctor’s office or a pharmacy, where the health department also administers the vaccine through its “Shots for Tots” and “Big Shots” clinics. More information about these services can be found here. Please note that children under 14 years old require a doctor’s prescription to receive the vaccine at a pharmacy.