UPDATE: Measles Outbreak Continues To Rise, Confirmed Case Now In Lubbock

Health officials in Lubbock and in Texas continue to warn citizens about a measles outbreak in West Texas that is continuing to get larger.

As we have previously reported, cases were being confirmed in Gaines County over the past couple of weeks. On Friday, the Texas Department of State Health Services reported that there are at least now 48 cases, doubling the last amount that we reported. Cases are being reported in Gaines, Lynn, Terry, and Yoakum counties.

On Friday afternoon, the City of Lubbock confirmed a case of measles in Lubbock County.

While most cases have been connected to unvaccinated children, some adults have also tested positive.

What Are Symptoms of Measles?

Symptoms appear 7 to 21 days after contact with the virus, and may include:

• High fever
• Cough
• Runny nose
• Red, watery eyes
• 2-3 days after symptoms begin, tiny white spots (Koplik spots) may appear inside the mouth.
• 3-5 days after symptoms begin, a rash that appears flat and red may appear on the face and hairline. This rash tends to spread downward to the neck, trunk, arms, legs and feet.

When Should Someone Take Emergency Care?

• High fever (over 103°F).
• Severe cough or difficulty breathing.
• Signs of severe complications like seizures, confusion, or extreme fatigue/weakness.
• Dehydration

For those who have questions, reach out to your medical provider or call Lubbock Public Health at 806-775-2933.

The Lubbock Public Health office will continue to monitor the outbreak.