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Health officials in Hays County have issued an alert regarding a measles outbreak, now confirmed in San Marcos. The alert comes after a reported potential exposure to the virus in the region.

A resident from Gaines County, who later tested positive for measles, was in San Marcos on Friday, February 14, between the hours of 3 p.m. and 8 p.m.

Officials state that individuals present on the Texas State University campus between approximately 3 p.m. and 7 p.m. or at Twin Peaks Restaurant during 6 p.m. to 10 p.m. could have been exposed and are advised to monitor their health.

The Hays County Health Department is urging those who believe they may have been exposed to inform their local health officials. Collaboration is ongoing with the Texas Department of State Health Services and additional local health agencies to track potential contacts.

San Antonio recently received a health advisory concerning an individual from Gaines County who visited several locations on Saturday, February 15. These include the University of Texas at San Antonio main campus from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., various attractions along the River Walk like the Wax Museum, Ripley’s Believe It or Not, and Ripley’s Illusion Lab from 2:30 p.m. to 5:30 p.m., and Mr. Crabby’s Seafood and Bar in Live Oak between 6 p.m. and 8 p.m.

As the center of the current outbreak, Gaines County has recorded at least 45 confirmed cases, with the highest rate of unvaccinated students in Texas this school year at 18%, according to state health statistics.

Currently, the total number of confirmed measles cases in Texas has reached 90, marking the most significant outbreak in 30 years.

Measles was officially eradicated in the United States in 2000 due to a highly effective vaccination program that ensured widespread immunity in the population.

“Texas is facing its largest measles outbreak in decades,” stated Dr. John Turner, Hays County Local Health Authority. “Those who are unvaccinated are at an increased risk of contracting the infection. To reduce the likelihood of infection and severe illness, it is critical for individuals to verify their vaccination status.”

The Hays County Health Department will reach out to those identified as having had contact with the individual diagnosed with measles for further guidance and to initiate investigations.

Statistics show that 90% of unvaccinated individuals, or those who haven’t previously had measles, are likely to become infected if exposed to the virus. Anyone exhibiting symptoms should promptly consult their healthcare provider or visit an urgent care center and isolate for four days following the onset of any rash.

Individuals who were present at Texas State University or Twin Peaks Restaurant during the times of potential exposure are advised to:

• Check their vaccination history to confirm protection against measles. Those without a previous infection or immunization may need to consult a healthcare professional regarding the measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR) vaccination.
• Inform their healthcare provider immediately about any potential exposure, particularly if they are pregnant, have an infant, or have an immune compromise, regardless of vaccination status.
• Monitor for any onset of fever or unexpected rash from four to 21 days following exposure (the period during which symptoms may manifest).
• If they experience symptoms, stay home and refrain from attending work, school, or large gatherings. Contact a healthcare provider right away before visiting a medical facility to discuss exposure and symptoms. Health authorities can assist healthcare providers in diagnosing and managing care.

Common measles symptoms include:

• High fever (up to 105 degrees)
• Cough
• Runny nose
• Red, watery eyes
• Small white spots inside the mouth that may appear two to three days after symptoms begin
• A rash that typically emerges three to five days after the initial signs of illness, beginning on the face and then spreading across the body.

Hays County Judge Ruben Becerra remarked, “The Hays County Health Department is responding swiftly to ensure collaboration and preparedness among partner agencies in light of this situation.”

He added, “Our county has made significant improvements in our approach to public health emergencies, and I am confident that the department is well-equipped to mitigate the effects of this measles outbreak within our community. I will continue to support the health department and Office of Emergency Services with additional resources as necessary.”

For further information, please visit: https://www.hayscountytx.gov/current-public-health-situations. The site will be updated as more details become available.