LUBBOCK, TX — Lubbock Public Health officials are investigating a confirmed case of measles in a school-aged child who was recently treated at a local healthcare facility.
The child was not vaccinated for measles and is being monitored said Lubbock Public Health.
Health authorities are working with the South Plains Public Health District and the healthcare facility to determine whether there has been any exposure to others in the area.
There are no known locations outside the healthcare facility where people may have been exposed at this time.
The facility is reaching out to anyone who may have been in contact with the child during their visit.
What to Look Out For
Measles symptoms typically show up 7 to 21 days after exposure and can include:
- High fever
- Cough
- Runny nose
- Red, watery eyes
- Koplik spots (small white spots inside the mouth, which appear 2-3 days after symptoms start)
- A red, flat rash that begins on the face and spreads to the rest of the body 3-5 days after symptoms start.
According to the CDC, measles is highly contagious and spreads easily through coughing, sneezing, or contact with contaminated surfaces. The virus can remain in the air for up to two hours, and a person can spread it up to four days before and four days after the rash appears.
What to Do If You’ve Been Exposed or Are Showing Symptoms
If you think you may have been exposed to measles or are experiencing any symptoms, health officials recommend that you:
- Isolate yourself right away to prevent spreading the virus to others.
- Call your healthcare provider to arrange for testing without visiting the office in person.
- Keep an eye out for symptoms, which can develop 7 to 21 days after exposure.
Anyone with questions can reach out to Lubbock Public Health at 806-775-2933 for any help.
Updates will be provided as the investigation continues.
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