North Austin News

Austin Public Health (APH) has confirmed the first measles case in Travis County since 2019. The patient is an unvaccinated infant who contracted the virus during a trip abroad. The family members of the infant are vaccinated and are currently isolating at home.

Dr. Desmar Walkes, Austin-Travis County Health Authority, emphasized the importance of vaccination: “As measles has arrived in our community, I’m calling on everyone to make sure they’re protected against this vaccine-preventable disease.” Dr. Walkes warned that remaining unvaccinated could lead to severe health consequences, including hospitalization and death.

The most effective protection against measles is the measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR) vaccine. Full protection requires two doses of the MMR vaccine. This vaccine is available at doctors' offices and pharmacies; however, children under 14 need a prescription for pharmacy vaccinations. APH also provides vaccines through its Shots for Tots and Big Shots clinics.

Measles spreads easily through airborne particles when an infected person coughs or sneezes. The virus can remain active in the air and on surfaces for up to two hours, posing a risk to those who breathe contaminated air or touch infected surfaces before touching their face.

The disease's symptoms typically appear between seven to fourteen days after exposure. Measles can cause serious complications such as ear infections, diarrhea, pneumonia, encephalitis, and even death—particularly in children under five years old.

Those not vaccinated are at risk of contracting measles. Although declared eliminated from the United States in 2000, measles remains prevalent worldwide and is often brought into the country by unvaccinated travelers returning from abroad.

Young children, pregnant women, and immunocompromised individuals are more susceptible to complications from measles.

For further information on measles in Austin-Travis County visit austintexas.gov/measles.