14-05-2025
Health District confirms measles case in McLennan County
Waco, Tx (FOX44) – The Waco-McLennan County Public Health District has confirmed one case of measles in an unvaccinated minor child.
The district says it has not been determined where the child might have picked up the disease.
There are no reported local public exposures related to this case at this time. The patient was tested at a Central Texas medical facility where infection control protocols were implemented.
'Measles is more than just a rash – it's a serious disease that can lead to severe complications,' said Stephanie Alvey, Interim Director of the Waco-McLennan County Public Health District. 'Vaccination is our strongest tool to prevent outbreaks and protect our communities.'
The Health District is conducting contact tracing to notify individuals who may have been exposed and is coordinating with healthcare providers to monitor and manage the situation.
The Health District strongly encouraged area residents to take these steps:
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 to prevent potential exposure to others.
The District pointed out that measles is a highly contagious virus that 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, red spots on the face and then spreads down the neck and trunk to the rest of the body. 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 District said the most effective way to prevent measles is through vaccination.
Individuals needing a 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.
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