Officials confirmed a case of measles in an adult North Texas resident Feb. 25.
There are also two possible cases in Houston.
ROCKWALL, Texas — Health officials say the person infected with measles in Rockwall County has recovered, and while they’re still working to identify any potential exposures, no one else has been reported sick from that case. There also isn’t believed to be any risk of further spread, officials say.
Officials confirmed a case of measles in an adult resident of Rockwall County Feb. 25.
“The Texas Department of State Health Services says DSHS continues to work to identify any potential exposures and no one has been reported sick that was in contact with this individual. There is no risk to the community because the person didn’t visit public places while they were contagious to DSHS knowledge,” a new statement from Rockwall County officials says. “The gentleman has recovered, and I am not aware of any other cases at this time.”
Officials say the person is an unvaccinated adult who had recently traveled internationally, and the case is not believed to be connected to the measles outbreak in West Texas, where the state’s first measles death, an unvaccinated school-aged child, was reported last week. Here's the latest on measles cases reported in Texas.
The timeline of the Rockwall County resident’s international travel and when the resident began feeling sick remain unclear.
The Rockwall County resident was hospitalized and all direct contacts of the person were notified for observation after the measles case was reported, officials said.
• Fever: Often high (may exceed 104°F).
• Cough: One of the earliest indicators, alongside a runny nose and sneezing.
• Runny Nose (Coryza): Nasal congestion and discharge are common.
• Red or Irritated Eyes (Conjunctivitis): Eyes may become sensitive to light.
• Koplik Spots: Small white spots that may appear inside the cheeks or on the tongue, usually before the rash.
• Rash: Typically appears 3-5 days after the initial symptoms, beginning on the face and spreading downward to the rest of the body.
Preventive Measures and Recommendations
1. Vaccination: The measles-mumps-rubella (MMR) vaccine is the best way to prevent measles. Check your immunization records and ensure you and your family members are up to date.
2. Protect High-Risk Groups: Individuals with weakened immune systems (e.g., due to chemotherapy or certain medical conditions), older adults, and very young children need extra caution to avoid exposure.
3. Stay Home If Ill: If you develop symptoms, isolate at home and consult a healthcare professional to reduce the risk of spreading the virus.
4. Wash Hands Frequently: Regular handwashing with soap and water helps minimize the spread of infectious diseases.