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The Independent
2 days ago
- Health
- The Independent
Measles outbreak in Texas is over, say health officials
Texas health officials announced on Monday the official end of a devastating measles outbreak that sickened 762 people and claimed the lives of two young children. The declaration follows more than 42 consecutive days without a new confirmed case in the affected counties, meeting the public health threshold for declaring an outbreak over. The last reported case in Texas was on 1 July, according to state data. Beyond the tragic fatalities, the highly contagious virus led to 100 hospitalisations. Cases were linked to outbreaks in Canada and Mexico, subsequently spreading to other US states. Texas Department of State Health Services Commissioner Jennifer Shuford noted the outbreak's unusual nature, stating that before its onset, "most doctors in the state hadn't even seen a case of measles because of how uncommon it has become." She attributed the successful containment to "testing, vaccination, monitoring and education." Ms Shuford further commended the efforts of healthcare professionals, stating: "I want to highlight the tireless work of the public health professionals across the state who contributed to the containment of one of the most contagious viruses." Measles, a highly contagious virus, causes rash and respiratory symptoms, potentially leading to severe complications or death. It is prevented by the measles, mumps, and rubella vaccine, recommended for young children before school. State officials will continue monitoring for new cases. ___ The Associated Press Health and Science Department receives support from the Howard Hughes Medical Institute's Department of Science Education and the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation. The AP is solely responsible for all content.
Indian Express
11-05-2025
- Health
- Indian Express
Haryana directs health officers on leave to resume duty immediately: ‘department must operate at full alert mode'
Amid the ongoing developments between India and Pakistan, the Haryana Government Sunday directed all health officers and employees who are currently on leave to immediately report to their respective district headquarters and resume work. In a statement, the government also warned of departmental disciplinary action against those who fail to comply with the orders. Haryana Health Minister Arti Singh Rao instructed the Health Department to exercise special caution due to the situation arising at the India-Pakistan border, citing incidents of 'repeated ceasefire violations by Pakistan'. 'In view of the emergency situation at the border, the Health Department must operate at full alert mode. The presence of all officers and employees is essential to prevent disruptions in health services during any unforeseen situation. Service to the people is paramount, and at this time, the department must work in unity,' she said. The Haryana health minister said the government is closely monitoring the evolving situation and will implement additional measures as necessary. The general public has been advised to avoid rumours and to contact local health centres for any healthcare-related concerns. She clarified that these orders are temporary, issued in light of the security situation, and may be changed based on circumstances. However, she also stressed that ensuring timely medical facilities remains the department's top priority, and any negligence will not be tolerated. The state government also referred to an official order released by the Director General of State Health Services to all civil surgeons Saturday. The order mandated that all types of leave — including Earned Leave (EL), Child Care Leave (CCL), Extraordinary Leave (EOL), or any other category — stood cancelled with immediate effect. Additionally, it directed that no officer or employee may leave their district headquarters or take leave. The state government has also instructed officials to ensure the availability of essential resources at all hospitals and primary health centres across districts. Control rooms have been activated to monitor emergency medicines, blood storage, ambulance services and deployment of medical staff. The Health Department has assured the public that it is fully prepared to handle any situation. In an order issued on May 8, the Haryana Director General of State Health Services instructed that no health department employee or officer should leave their district headquarters or proceed on leave. The directive further specified that no type of leave shall be sanctioned until further notice. If leave is needed to be approved due to urgent circumstances, approval from the director general is required.
