Latest news with #Persse
Yahoo
07-04-2025
- Health
- Yahoo
Texas measles outbreak: Second child dies from measles-related complications
TEXAS - The second measles death of a Texas child was reported by the Texas Department of State Health Services. This comes as an ongoing outbreak of measle cases has been centered in the state's South Plains region. What we know Health officials said the school-aged child who tested positive for measles was hospitalized in Lubbock and passed away on Thursday. The child's doctor described the death from measles pulmonary failure. Officials said the child was not vaccinated and had no underlying conditions. Big picture view As of Friday, April 4, 481 cases of measles have been confirmed in the outbreak since late January. Most of the cases are in children, according to the Texas Department of State Health Services. Fifty-six people have been hospitalized over the course of the outbreak. What they're saying "We are giving a lot of attention, as we should, to the situation in West Texas as there is a lot of spread of measles, again among almost exclusively unvaccinated people," said Dr. David Persse of the Houston Health Department. The death comes less than a week after health officials confirmed a child with measles traveled through Hobby Airport after arriving from Mexico. RELATED: Houston: Measles case confirmed in patient who traveled through Hobby Airport The Houston Health Department said, so far, there have been five measles cases reported in our region. There have been three cases reported in the City of Houston, one case in Harris County, and one case in Fort Bend County. Health officials are urging residents, particularly those with young children, to make sure they are up-to-date on their vaccinations. "About 95% of Houstonians, and for the vaccinated folks, they almost have nothing to worry about," said Dr. Persse. RELATED: Measles case reported in Harris County RELATED: Fort Bend County reports first measles case in its area RELATED: Infant measles case confirmed as third in Houston this year, officials say Why you should care The Texas Department of State Health Services describes measles as a highly contagious respiratory illness which can cause life-threatening illness to anyone who is not protected against the virus. During a measles outbreak, about one in five children who get sick will need hospital care and one in 20 will develop pneumonia. Rarely, measles can lead to swelling of the brain and death. What they're saying In a statement, UMC Health System in Lubbock said: We are deeply saddened to report that a school-aged child who was recently diagnosed with measles has passed away. The child was receiving treatment for complications of measles while hospitalized. It is important to note that the child was not vaccinated against measles and had no known underlying health conditions. This unfortunate event underscores the importance of vaccination. Measles is a highly contagious disease that can lead to serious complications, particularly for those who are unvaccinated. We encourage all able individuals to stay current with their vaccinations to help protect themselves and the broader community. Mark Funderburk, Chief Executive Officer expressed "On behalf of UMC Health System, we extend our thoughts and prayers to the family and loved ones of this child, during this very difficult time." The Source FOX 26 reporter Jade Flury contacted the Houston Health Department and UMC Health System in Lubbock.
Yahoo
01-03-2025
- Health
- Yahoo
Houston Health Department hosting measles vaccination clinic on Saturday
HOUSTON - The Houston Health Department is hosting a measles vaccination clinic on Saturday. What we know According to a news release, the Houston Health Department is taking proactive steps to protect the community from measles by hosting a free vaccination clinic for TVFC (Texas Vaccines for Children) and ASN eligible clients on Saturday, March 1 from 10 a.m. until 3 p.m. at Sunnyside Health Center, located at 4410 Reed Road. Those not eligible for TVFC or ASN should reach out to their primary care provider. Officials said as measles cases continue to rise nationwide, the Houston Health Department is urging families to take advantage of this opportunity to ensure they and their loved ones are protected. The vaccination clinic will be open to the public, offering free measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR) vaccines for eligible individuals. Parents are strongly encouraged to check their children's vaccination status and get them immunized if they have not yet received both recommended doses of the MMR vaccine. What they're saying "Measles is one of the most contagious viruses we face, and it can have serious health consequences, especially for young children and those with weakened immune systems," said Dr. David Persse, Chief Medical Officer for the City of Houston. "The best way to prevent measles is through vaccination, which is safe, effective, and provides long-term protection." "We want to provide as much information as possible about critical protection," Dr. Persse added. "With measles outbreaks happening in various parts of the country, now is the time to get vaccinated and prevent this highly contagious disease from spreading in our community." CDC Recommendations The CDC recommends that children receive two doses of the measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR) vaccine: • First dose: 12–15 months old • Second dose: 4–6 years old • Infants 6–11 months traveling internationally to areas with a measles outbreak, or after shared decision-making with their provider, can receive one dose of the MMR vaccine followed by the routine two-dose series. Adults born after 1956 who have not been vaccinated or have not had measles should get at least one dose, and high-risk groups may need two doses. What you can do For updates and more information on measles and vaccinations, visit or call (832) 395-9100. The Source Information was provided by a news release from the Houston Health Department.
