New Mexico health officials warn of measles risk ahead of summer travel and events

The Department of Health urges MMR vaccination as measles cases rise across 30 states, including four counties in New Mexico

Organ Mountain News report

SANTA FE – As New Mexicans prepare for summer travel, art markets and community events, state health officials are urging residents to make sure they’re protected against measles.

The New Mexico Department of Health is recommending the measles, mumps and rubella (MMR) vaccine for anyone who is unvaccinated or unsure of their vaccination status — especially those traveling to or from areas with reported outbreaks.

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“Measles is a highly contagious disease, as we can see by its spread around the country,” said Dr. Chad Smelser, acting state epidemiologist. “More people traveling in the summer emphasizes the importance of keeping you and your loved ones safe with the best-known protection — the MMR vaccine.”

Smelser also encouraged organizers of summer camps and large public events to ask attendees to ensure they’re up-to-date on vaccinations before participating.

As of this week, 67 measles cases have been reported in New Mexico. Cases have been confirmed in 30 U.S. states, including nearby Mexico and Canada, raising the risk of exposure for unvaccinated travelers.

According to NMDOH, 20,304 MMR vaccine doses have been administered statewide between Feb. 1 and April 26 — nearly double the 10,860 doses given during the same period last year.

Measles symptoms typically appear seven to 21 days after exposure. They include fever, cough, runny nose and red eyes, followed by a red, blotchy rash that usually starts on the face and spreads downward across the body.

Anyone experiencing these symptoms should call the NMDOH Helpline at 1-833-796-8773 for nurse guidance in English or Spanish. Health officials also advise calling your doctor or emergency department before showing up, to allow providers to prepare for a possible measles case.

So far, measles has been diagnosed in Chaves, Doña Ana, Eddy and Lea counties.

Additional information is available in English and Spanish at measles.doh.nm.gov.

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