Record Numbers of New Mexicans Seek Measles, Mumps Vaccines

New Mexicans are stepping up to protect their communities, with over 50,000 people receiving the measles, mumps and rubella (MMR) vaccination since February in response to a measles outbreak

As New Mexico vaccinates for measles and had previously eliminated endemic transmission in 1997, it has experienced a recent outbreak due to declining vaccination rates and the reintroduction of the virus from west Texas.

New Mexico uses the measles-mumps-rubella (MMR) vaccine, with two doses recommended for children, and has conducted mass vaccination campaigns and ongoing efforts to increase coverage and control the current outbreak. 

“New Mexicans are doing their part to stem the tide of the outbreak,” said Dr. Chad Smelser, a medical epidemiologist with the New Mexico Department of Health (NMDOH). “The response has been tremendous, people are checking their vaccination records and getting the protection they need.”

Since February 1, a total of 50,950 New Mexicans received the measles, mumps and rubella (MMR) vaccination. The strong vaccination response is helping to protect communities. New Mexico has had 100 cases, including three recent measles cases in Santa Fe County.

"People should check their vaccination records to ensure they are up to date with MMR—the best protection against measles," Smelser added.

Symptoms start with a cough, runny nose, and eye redness, and then progress to fever and rash. The rash starts on the head and spreads down the body. Complications can include ear infections and pneumonia.

If you’re experiencing fever and rash, contact your doctor or emergency department first to tell them you are worried about measles so they can plan for your visit. You can also call the NMDOH Helpline at 1-833-SWNURSE (1-833-796-8773). The Helpline is staffed by nurses who can provide guidance in English and Spanish related to measles and vaccination questions.

Measles is extremely contagious: a person with measles can infect others from four days before rash onset through four days after the rash appears. In enclosed spaces the virus can stay in the air for two hours after an infected person has left.
MMR vaccines are very effective against measles. One dose of vaccine is 93% effective, and two doses are 97% effective. The measles vaccine provides lifetime protection.

For more information visit our website http://measles.doh.nm.gov/.

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