SAN MARCOS, Texas — Officials from the Hays County health department have alerted the public about a potential measles exposure following the visit of an individual who later tested positive for the illness in San Marcos on February 14.

As reported by the Hays County Health Department, a resident of Gaines County confirmed to have measles was present in San Marcos between 3 p.m. and 8 p.m. on that Friday.

Individuals who were at Texas State University from roughly 3 p.m. to 7 p.m. or at Twin Peaks Restaurant from 6 p.m. to 10 p.m. may have been exposed to the virus.

The local health authority will reach out to those potentially exposed. Health officials are collaborating with the Hays County Health Department, the Texas Department of State Health Services, and other local agencies to trace possible contacts.

“Measles is an extremely infectious airborne disease that spreads through respiratory droplets from an infected individual’s coughs and sneezes. Texas is currently facing its most significant measles outbreak in decades,” stated Dr. John Turner, Local Health Authority for Hays County. “Those who are unvaccinated face a heightened risk of contracting the virus. To reduce the likelihood of infection and severe illness, it is crucial for individuals to ensure they are appropriately vaccinated.”

Statistics indicate that approximately 90% of unvaccinated individuals or those who have not previously contracted measles will likely become infected.

The health department will reach out to individuals identified as having been in contact with the infected person, providing necessary guidance.

Anyone exhibiting symptoms is advised to consult their primary healthcare provider or visit urgent care facilities, and to self-isolate for four days following the appearance of a rash.

Individuals who were at the locations of potential exposure during the identified times should take the following precautions:

• Check their vaccination and medical history. Those who haven’t had measles or are unvaccinated should seek advice from a healthcare provider regarding MMR vaccination.
• Contact their healthcare provider immediately if they are pregnant, have an infant, or possess a weakened immune system, irrespective of their vaccination status.
• Monitor for signs of fever and/or unexplained rash between four and 21 days after potential exposure.
• If any symptoms arise, remain at home and refrain from attending school, work, or large gatherings. Promptly notify your healthcare provider before visiting any facility about your exposure and symptoms.

“The Hays County Health Department is taking swift action to ensure preparedness among partner agencies in this situation,” expressed Hays County Judge Ruben Beccera. “Significant progress has been made in enhancing our responses to public health crises. I am confident that the department is equipped to mitigate the effects of a possible measles outbreak within our region. I will collaborate with the health department and Office of Emergency Services to provide additional resources as needed.”

Measles transmits easily through the air when an infected person breathes, speaks, coughs, or sneezes. The virus remains viable in the air and on surfaces for up to two hours, even after the infected person has vacated the area.

An infected individual can transmit the virus from four days prior to the onset of a measles rash to four days after its appearance.

Transmission can occur if others inhale the contaminated air or touch surfaces that harbor the virus, subsequently touching their eyes, noses, or mouths.

Common symptoms of measles include:

• High fever (potentially reaching 105 degrees)
• Cough
• Runny nose
• Red, watery eyes
• Small white spots that may develop inside the mouth two to three days after initial symptoms appear
• A rash that typically emerges three to five days following other illness symptoms, starting on the face and progressively spreading across the body.