Blood sample positive with Measles virus (iStock / Getty Images Plus)
The New Mexico health department on Tuesday reported a Lea County teenager has the first confirmed case of measles this year, and provided information for residents about possible exposure as measles are very contagious. New Mexico had two measles cases in 2024, and they were the first measles cases here since 2021.
According to a news release, NMDOH is working with the patient’s family, Nor-Lea Hospital and the local school district to ensure all contacts have up-to-date measles vaccinations, two doses of which are 97% effective against the disease. Residents can check their vaccination status online or by calling 1-833-796-8773.
“It is important to get up to date on vaccinations now, especially if you or your children are not fully immunized for measles,” NMDOH Chief Medical Officer Dr. Miranda Durham said in a statement. “Measles can spread easily, whether you’re in Lea County or elsewhere in the state, if you’re not current on the measles-mumps-rubella (MMR) vaccine.”
New Mexico’s lone case follows an outbreak in the neighboring Gaines County in Texas — which has grown to at least 15 confirmed cases — but the department says the infected teen had no recent travel or exposure to known cases from that area.
Exposure information
Anyone who visited the following locations during these given days and times may have been exposed to measles:
10 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. Sunday, Feb. 9, Nor-Lea Hospital Emergency Department at 1600 Main Street, Lovington, N.M.
5:30 p.m. to 9:30 p.m. Thursday, Feb. 6. Sixth Grade Academy gymnasium at 310 N 5th Street, Lovington, N.M.
Symptoms appear 7 to 21 days after exposure and can include fever, cough, runny nose, and red eyes, followed by a red spotted rash that usually starts on the head or face and spreads across the body.
Complications can include diarrhea, ear infections, and pneumonia.