Second case of measles confirmed in McLennan County
WACO, TEXAS (FOX 44) – A second case of measles has been confirmed in McLennan County.
The Waco-McLennan County Public Health District says this case is a minor who is unvaccinated, and has been identified as a household contact of the initial confirmed case. Both individuals are currently recovering at home under isolation.
There are no reported local public exposures related to this case. The patient was tested at aCentral Texas medical facility where infection control protocols were implemented. Health officials continue to closely monitor the situation.
The Public Health District says measles is a highly contagious virus which can be transmitted by direct contact with infectious droplets or by airborne spread when an infected person breathes, coughs, or sneezes. People who are infected will begin to have symptoms within a week or two after being exposed.
Early symptoms include high fever, cough, runny nose, and red, watery eyes. A few days later, the telltale rash breaks out as flat with some raised bumps, red spots on the face and then spreads down the neck and trunk to the rest of the body.
PREVIOUS STORY: Health District confirms measles case in McLennan County
The Public Health District says a person is contagious about four days before the rash appears to four days after. People who could have measles should stay home during that period.
The Public Health District says it conducts contact tracing for all exposed individuals once a person tests positive and coordinates with healthcare providers to monitor and manage the situation.
Residents are strongly encouraged to:
Check their vaccination status and ensure they are up to date with the MMR (Measles, Mumps, and Rubella) vaccine.
Monitor for symptoms if they have been in contact with an infected individual.
Seek medical care if symptoms develop but call ahead before visiting a healthcare facility toprevent potential exposure to others.
The Public Health District says the most effective way to prevent measles is through vaccination. The MMR vaccine is safe and highly effective in protecting against the virus. If a person is exposed to measles and has not had the necessary doses of MMR according to their age, they may be vaccinated up to 72 hours after the initial exposure. If a person has never been vaccinated against the measles, a single does can provide 93 percent protection from measles.
Individuals needing an MMR vaccination should consult their healthcare provider or visit the Waco-McLennan County Public Health District's Immunization Clinic. MMR vaccines are available at the Health District Monday – Friday from 8:00 a.m. – 4:30 p.m., with no appointment necessary.
For more information about the Public Health District, you can visit wacomclennanphd.org.
Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.
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