New Mexico announces measles outbreak in a county detention facility
The Luna County Detention Center, located in the southwest New Mexico city of Deming, houses about 400 incarcerated people and has 100 staff members. State health officials say they are determining the vaccination status of people being held at the facility and are providing testing kits and equipment.
As of Friday, the U.S. has 1,227 measles cases nationwide as of Tuesday, including active outbreaks in 12 states.
The highly contagious and vaccine-preventable illness has been spreading in New Mexico since February, starting first in Lea County — just across the border from the epicenter of the historic Texas outbreak that has sickened 750 people since late January.
New Mexico had 81 confirmed measles cases Tuesday, with Thursday's announcement bringing the total to 86. One state resident died of measles in March. The adult was unvaccinated and did not seek medical care.
'The cases at Luna County Detention Center are a stark reminder that the measles outbreak in New Mexico is not over,' said Dr. Chad Smelser, a medical epidemiologist with the New Mexico Department of Health. 'We urge everyone in New Mexico, especially Luna County residents, to ensure that they are fully vaccinated against measles.'
Health officials put out an alert June 17 about measles being found Deming's wastewater system, an early sign that the virus was spreading.
Pablo Montoya, the facility's warden, said in a statement that the first signs of illness started a week ago and all five incarcerated people who tested positive are now in quarantine. All in-person visits are suspended and court hearings will be held virtually.
New Mexico has seen a large increase in measles vaccinations since February. More than 37,500 doses of the measles, mumps and rubella vaccine had been administered as of Monday, state data shows, compared to about 19,300 in the same timeframe of 2024.
The measles vaccine is safe and it is 97% effective at protecting against measles after two doses. It is recommended as a routine vaccination for children across the U.S.
___
The Associated Press Health and Science Department receives support from the Howard Hughes Medical Institute's Science and Educational Media Group and the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation. The AP is solely responsible for all content.
Hashtags
Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles
Android Authority
14 minutes ago
- Android Authority
Blood pressures rise as the FDA cracks down on this wearable's flagship feature
WHOOP TL;DR The FDA has scrutinized Whoop for a new wellness monitoring feature that has not been certified. The FDA considers the Whoop MG (Medical Grade) a medical device and should remove the Blood Pressure Insights feature until approved. Whoop claims the product is not for medical use and will not disable the feature. Wellness wearable maker Whoop, specifically one of its latest fitness bands, has drawn the ire of the FDA after it debuted a feature not approved or certified by the authority. Per a Bloomberg filing, the FDA is pressuring Whoop to disable its Blood Pressure Insights feature. This new app offers its wearers blood pressure estimates and related guidance to provide a holistic view of their well-being. However, the FDA and Whoop can't seem to agree whether the MG's feature constitutes a medical device and must go through the traditional regulatory channels. WHOOP Whoop's marketing material claims that the MG is 'not a medical device and cannot diagnose or manage medical conditions,' and, as a result, the FDA has no authority to 'regulate the product.' However, the FDA seemingly believes otherwise, claiming that potentially erroneous blood pressure readings can harm those wearing the device. Regardless, Whoop reportedly has confirmed that it would not remove the feature, going against the recent trends of health tech firms relenting to the agency. Don't want to miss the best from Android Authority? Set us as a preferred source in Google Search to support us and make sure you never miss our latest exclusive reports, expert analysis, and much more. Medical devices must go through the relevant FDA channels for testing and approval before being marketed and sold; this includes unproven and novel sensors on smartwatches and fitness trackers. While the process ensures consumers are offered clinically-approved products, it can take months, often resulting in features launching well after a device has debuted. The Fitbit Sense's ECG sensor is a particularly memorable example of this. The FDA can demand fines from offending companies or even forbid their products from being sold. Still, the genuine issue appears to be the nebulous definitions of medical devices and modern fitness trackers. We've seen wellness wearable makers debut numerous features in recent years, but blood pressure readings and guidance remain relatively novel. The Samsung Galaxy Watch line and Garmin products like the Index include similar features, but both Korean and American companies have undergone the relevant approval processes before launch. Despite its firm stance, Whoop has reportedly requested an audience with the FDA to clarify the situation, but it's unclear how this tussle will ultimately affect Whoop MG owners. The screenless wellness band debuted for $359 alongside the Whoop 5.0 in May, but the Blood Pressure Insights feature is available only to premium subscribers. Follow
CNET
14 minutes ago
- CNET
Improve Eye Health With These 6 Best Vitamins and Supplements
The bright summer sunshine can do wonders for your mental health, but the increase in allergens and harmful UV rays is not as kind to your eyes. Annoyances like watery eyes, dry eyes or blurry vision are common in this season, but it's possible to make your eyes more resilient to these issues. Having a balanced diet that incorporates dark green leafy vegetables and essential fatty acids is important for more than just your nutrition and gut health. Everything you eat can impact specific organs, like your eyes. Fortunately, that means you can incorporate specific vitamins, supplements and foods into your diet to support your eye health and vision. However, make sure you talk to your doctor before making any changes, even if it's just including more eye-boosting vitamins and supplements in your diet. They can help you figure out what a balanced diet looks like for you, especially if you want to focus on a specific aspect of your health. The best vitamins and supplements for eye health Getty Images In addition to a balanced diet, here are the best vitamins and supplements for your eyes. Luckily, you can get most of these added supplements for less than $10. VitaminVitamin A supports your vision, immune system, heart, lungs and overall growth and development. Specifically, vitamin A helps you see a full spectrum of light, as the vitamin produces pigments in the retina. It can also keep your eyes from drying out. You can find vitamin A in foods such as salmon, broccoli, eggs, carrots and fortified breakfast cereals. You have probably heard of the magic of carrots. Yes, it's true: Carrots are great for your eyes. Carrots (and other vividly colored fruits and vegetables) are high in beta-carotene, which is a compound that your body uses to make vitamin A. Beta-carotene is also available in a supplement form, although it isn't as common as vitamin A and is often more expensive. Vitamin C Vitamin C is found in foods like citrus fruit, bell peppers and tomatoes. Getty Images Vitamin C is like sunscreen for your eyes: It helps protect them from UV damage. The more time you spend outside and under the sun, the greater the risk for damage. According to the American Academy of Ophthalmology, too long in the sun can cause irreversible damage. Vitamin C can also lower your risk of cataracts, a disease that causes the lens of your eyes to become cloudy. While a recent study found that vitamin C supplementation was effective in patients who were already vitamin C deficient, more studies are needed to truly understand the relationship between vitamin C and a lower risk of cataracts. In addition to getting enough vitamin C, avoid tanning beds, and if you are outside, wear sunglasses and a hat to protect your eyes. Omega-Optometrists regularly recommend their patients consume omega-3s, and if a patient isn't getting enough of these fatty acids in their diet, try a supplement. Omega-3s are mainly found in fatty fish such as tuna, salmon, mackerel or herring and some nuts and seeds. The American Optometric Association points to omega-3s as a nutrient that can slow the progress of age-related macular degeneration. Studies have also found that they can help prevent dry eye disease. These nutrients are great for both conditions due to their anti-inflammatory effects. Vitamin E yulka3ice/iStock/Getty Images Another powerful antioxidant, vitamin E is vital to all our cells and cell functions. It helps to protect our bodies from cancer-causing free radicals and plays an important role in vision. Studies have shown that vitamin E can help protect the retinas from free radicals that can cause eye disease. Vitamin C, another antioxidant, has more properties that help regeneration. Vitamin E can only help to protect the cells already there. But vitamin E can slow the progression of age-related macular degeneration. The American Optometric Association recommends 400 IU of vitamin E a day. Zinc Zinc is found in almost all multivitamins because it is such an essential nutrient to the body. It is used to boost the immune system and help the body heal from wounds quickly. Zinc also aids in eye health. Zinc helps vitamin A create melanin (a pigment that protects the eyes) and may shield the eyes from age-related macular degeneration. The American Optometric Association recommends 40 to 80 mg a day to slow the progression. Read more: Best Zinc Supplements Lutein and zeaxanthin Lutein and zeaxanthin are known to be important to our eyes. Lutein and zeaxanthin are carotenoids found in red and yellowish fruits and vegetables, as these compounds give the produce their vibrant colors. Carotenoids, also powerful antioxidants, are vital to eye health. They protect the eyes from free radicals that can cause damage. Lutein and zeaxanthin, specifically, have been found to prevent damage to retinas. These carotenoids can also slow the progression of age-related macular degeneration. The American Optometric Association recommends a daily amount of 10 mg of lutein and 2 mg of zeaxanthin. While you can find lutein and zeaxanthin in supplement form, one bottle is on the pricier side. You may find it better, easier and more affordable to just eat more fruits and vegetables. Vitamins and supplements found in foods undefined Vitamin/supplement Foods Vitamin A Salmon, broccoli, eggs, carrots and fortified breakfast cereals Vitamin C Kale, broccoli, oranges, lemons, strawberries and Brussels sprouts Omega-3s Tuna, salmon, herring, mackerel, chia seeds, flaxseed and walnuts Vitamin E Sunflower seeds, almonds, peanuts, collared greens, red bell peppers, mangoes and avocados Zinc Meat, shellfish, chickpeas, lentils, pumpkin seeds, cashews, almonds, eggs, cheese and milk Lutein and zeaxanthin Kale, spinach, peas, broccoli, orange juice, red peppers, honeydew melons and grapes What to consider Most vitamins and supplements are generally considered safe for people to take, as they're nutrients your body naturally requires. You should always talk to your doctor before starting any supplements. Some vitamins and supplements can interact with various medications. Check with your doctor or pharmacist before taking any new vitamins or supplements in conjunction with certain medications. Especially if you are pregnant or breastfeeding, consult a medical provider first. Your doctor should be able to safely guide you to the best vitamins and supplements for eye health, as well as proper dosages. Eye health tips In addition to the best vitamins and supplements for eye health, there are other ways you can protect your eyes and preserve your vision health: Wear sunglasses: Sunglasses block harmful UV light, decreasing your risk of cataracts, eye cancer and sunburn. Sunglasses block harmful UV light, decreasing your risk of cataracts, eye cancer and sunburn. Screen breaks: The American Optometric Association recommends the 20-20-20 rule, which states that every 20 minutes, you look away from your screen at something 20 feet away for 20 seconds. The American Optometric Association recommends the 20-20-20 rule, which states that every 20 minutes, you look away from your screen at something 20 feet away for 20 seconds. Physical activity: The American Academy of Ophthalmology reported on a study that found a correlation between exercise and eye damage prevention, though more studies are needed. The American Academy of Ophthalmology reported on a study that found a correlation between exercise and eye damage prevention, though more studies are needed. Avoid smoking: Smoking cigarettes can lead to eye diseases that result in vision loss and blindness, according to the Food and Drug Administration. Smoking cigarettes can lead to eye diseases that result in vision loss and blindness, according to the Food and Drug Administration. Get regular eye exams: Even if you have perfect vision, it is important to regularly get an eye exam to catch potential issues early. How often you should get an eye exam depends on your age. For instance, people ages 20 to 39 should get an eye exam every five years, while those ages 65 and up should get an eye exam every one to two years. Even if you have perfect vision, it is important to regularly get an eye exam to catch potential issues early. How often you should get an eye exam depends on your age. For instance, people ages 20 to 39 should get an eye exam every five years, while those ages 65 and up should get an eye exam every one to two years. Remove your makeup: Before bed, always remove your makeup to prevent eye irritation and inflammation.
Yahoo
an hour ago
- Yahoo
Kellogg says it will remove artificial dyes from cereals by the end of 2027
WK Kellogg Co. has announced that they will stop using artificial dyes in its breakfast cereals by the end of 2027, according to a statement from the company. The maker of Froot Loops, Apple Jacks, Frosted Flakes and Rice Krispies, just to name a few, said that they are evolving their portfolio of cereals 'to provide consumers with more of what they want and need -- such as whole grains and fiber and less of what they don't.' MORE: Body of Antarctic researcher found 66 years after he disappeared exploring glacier 'Today, the vast majority -- 85 percent -- of our cereal sales contain no FD&C colors and none of our products have contained Red No. 3 for years,' Kellogg said in their statement making the announcement. 'We are committed to continue working with HHS and FDA to identify effective solutions to remove FD&C colors from foods.' Kellogg pledged that they will be reformulating their cereals served in schools to not include FD&C colors by the 2026-27 school year, that they will not be launching any new products with FD&C colors beginning in January 2026 and that they plan on removing all FD&C colors from their products by the end of 2027, according to their announcement. MORE: $30,000 of stolen Labubus recovered in major California bust 'We are proud that our cereals provide consumers with important nutrients such as Iron, Vitamin D and Folate,' Kellogg said. 'Kellogg's cereals have played an important role in U.S. consumers' lives for more than a century, and we look forward to continuing that tradition.' The change comes amid a push from Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. to crack down on synthetic food additives as part of his initiative to "Make America Healthy Again." Among those efforts are proposals to phase out artificial food dyes in favor of natural alternatives. MORE: Denmark zoo asks for people to donate their pets to feed its predators MORE: 3 dead and at least 67 sick from growing Legionnaires' disease cluster in New York City In June, Kraft Heinz and General Mills announced plans to remove artificial food dyes from some products within the next two years. Several other large food manufacturers -- including PepsiCo, ConAgra, The Hershey Company, McCormick & Co., J.M. Smucker, Nestlé USA and more -- have announced similar plans in recent months. As of May, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration has approved three additional color additives from natural sources that are in line with the Department of Health and Human Services' goals, which can be used in a wide range of products from gum to breakfast cereal. MORE: UCLA set to lose some of its federal research funding: Officials Just last month, Mars Wrigley North America announced that products across four categories of its popular treats -- gum, fruity confections and chocolate candy -- will be made "without Food, Drug & Cosmetic (FD&C) colors" starting in 2026. The first of their brands to be available without without FD&C colors will include M&M's Chocolate, Skittles Original, Extra Gum Spearmint and Starburst Original fruit chews, the company said. ABC News' Kelly McCarthy contributed to this report. Solve the daily Crossword
