Measles Update 3/15/2025
As of 3/15/2025, two additional cases of measles have been identified and are being investigated by the Paris-Lamar County Health District. This brings the total to 7 cases in Lamar County.
Measles 3/14/2025
Confirmed Cases of Measles in Lamar County
Lamar County, Texas – Paris-Lamar County Health District has identified five confirmed cases of measles in ages ranging from 5 months to adult age. These individuals traveled to Gaines County during the measles outbreak. The individuals were not vaccinated. The Paris-Lamar County Health District is investigating cases and will continue to investigate cases that come in.
The Health District, with the support of (DSHS) Region 4/5, are actively investigating the cases and conducting contact tracing to identify possible exposures and limit further spread of the disease.
Due to the highly contagious nature of measles, additional cases may occur, especially in unvaccinated people.
“Measles is a serious yet preventable disease,” said Dr. Amanda Green, PLCHD local health authority. “Staying up to date on vaccinations is the most effective way to safeguard yourself, your loved ones, and the community from this highly contagious illness. With these recent cases, it’s more important than ever to ensure your immunizations are current.”
ABOUT MEASLES
Measles is a highly contagious viral disease that spreads through coughing, sneezing or simply being near someone infected. The virus can linger in the air for up to two hours after an infected person has left an area, making it easy to contract in shared spaces.
SYMPTOMS
High fever
Cough
Runny nose
Red, watery eyes
Rash, typically starting on the face and spreading downward 2–5 days after initial symptoms
INFECTIOUS PERIOD
People with measles can spread the virus from four days before the rash appears and to four days after the rash appears.
POTENTIAL COMPLICATIONS AND HIGH-RISK GROUPS
While measles can infect anyone, complications can be severe and include ear infections, diarrhea, pneumonia, or, in rare cases, brain inflammation (encephalitis). Those at the highest risk include:
Infants and children under 5 years old
Pregnant individuals
People with weakened immune systems
PREVENTION
Vaccination with the measles, mumps and rubella (MMR) vaccine is the most effective way to prevent measles.
· Two doses of the MMR vaccine provide a 97% protection rate and long-lasting immunity.
· The Texas Department of State Health Services and Local Public Health officials recommend:
The first dose at 12–15 months of age
The second dose at 4–6 years of age
WHAT TO DO IF EXPOSED OR SYMPTOMATIC
If you believe you have been exposed to measles or are experiencing symptoms:
Isolate yourself immediately to prevent spreading the virus to others.
Contact your healthcare provider by phone to arrange testing in a way that minimizes exposure to others.
If you do not have a regular health provider, call your local health department at the number below.
Watch for symptoms, which typically develop 7–21 days after exposure.
VACCINE ACCESS IN THE PARIS-LAMAR AREA
Contact your primary care physician to see if they offer the MMR vaccine.
Free or low-cost vaccines are also available at the Paris-Lamar County Health District.
Please call 903-785-4561 regarding times and availability.
We understand the concern that the community may have about Measles and vaccinations. Please do not hesitate to call your doctor or the Paris-Lamar County Health District at any time to discuss those concerns.
CONTACTS
Paris-Lamar County Health District
Alison Thrasher Allen alisonT@plchd.com
Epidemiology Department
Gina Prestridge ginap@suddenlinkmail.com
Executive Director
RESOURCES
DSHS Measles Outbreak News Updates (this is updated on Tuesdays & Fridays)
DSHS Measles Outbreak Information
