State says 42 days have passed since the last case in Santa Fe County, meeting the threshold to end the outbreak.

Organ Mountain News report

SANTA FE - The New Mexico Department of Health on Friday declared the state’s measles outbreak over, saying 42 days have passed since the last reported cases in Santa Fe County on Aug. 14.

How officials define ‘over’

Public health authorities consider a measles outbreak over when two full incubation periods — 42 days — pass with no new cases.

“We are thankful to the thousands of New Mexicans who received their measles, mumps and rubella vaccine,” said Dr. Chad Smelser, acting state epidemiologist. “Fully vaccinated people and those who got caught up with their vaccines during this outbreak prevented it from spreading further.”

What happened

The outbreak began Feb. 14 in Lea County, likely tied to exposures from West Texas, and ultimately totaled 100 cases — New Mexico’s first measles outbreak since 1996 and its largest in decades.

More than 56,000 people received an MMR vaccine since Feb. 1, according to NMDOH. The vaccine remains widely available.

Why it matters

Measles is highly contagious and can lead to pneumonia, encephalitis and increased susceptibility to other infections. Two doses of MMR are 97% effective at preventing disease.

What to do next

Officials urged residents — especially those planning travel — to check their MMR vaccination status.

If you develop fever and a rash, call your doctor or emergency department first to flag a concern about measles so staff can plan for your visit. The NMDOH Helpline at 1-833-SWNURSE (1-833-796-8773) offers guidance in English and Spanish. For more information, visit http://measles.doh.nm.gov/.