Measles Update: Essential Information for Parents

We know there is a great deal of information circulating regarding the Measles outbreak in West Texas. We wanted to take the opportunity to reach out to our PAA families to provide some anticipatory guidance in the case that Measles makes its way to the Austin area. We understand that this situation can cause anxiety and our hope is that by providing the following information, your fears will be eased. As your pediatrician, our goal is to always provide you with the most up-to-date accurate information to keep your children and our community safe. 

Current Status of the Measles Outbreak:

As of February 24, 2025, Texas has reported 90 measles cases, primarily in West Texas, with some recent potential exposures in San Marcos and San Antonio. While no cases have been confirmed in Austin, staying informed and ensuring vaccinations are up to date is key. The Texas Department of State Health Services (DSHS) is reporting that the majority of those affected are unvaccinated children aged 5 to 17. The overall risk remains low for fully vaccinated individuals. Please read the information below to learn more about measles and PAA’s plan to mitigate exposure in the office. We’ll continue to provide updates as the situation evolves. 

🔗 Texas DSHS Measles Outbreak Update (updated every Tuesday and Friday)

How Is Measles Contracted?

Measles is a virus that spreads through the air when an infected person coughs or sneezes. The virus can linger in the air and on surfaces for up to 2 hours, making it easy to catch. You can contract measles by:

• Breathing the same air as an infected person, even if they have already left the room.
• Touching contaminated surfaces and then touching your face, mouth, or eyes.
• Being near someone infected up to four days before and four days after their rash appears. 
• Measles is so contagious that 90% of unvaccinated people exposed will become infected.

Likelihood of Measles Reaching Austin:

Although there are currently no reported cases in Austin, measles can spread rapidly due to travel and community interactions. Areas with lower vaccination rates are at a higher risk. Ensuring high MMR vaccination coverage remains the best defense.

How We Will Handle Testing & Prevent Exposure in Our Office?

To protect our patients and staff, for the time being, patients with a known exposure to measles AND who are not fully vaccinated (have not yet received 2 MMR vaccine doses beginning at 12 months and older) will wait in their car until we notify them of appointment details. The provider may choose to conduct the visit in the parents car, rather than in the office. We will keep you up to date as our policies evolve. 

Measles Symptoms and Complications:

Measles can lead to serious complications, especially in young children, pregnant women, and people with weakened immune systems. Before you read further, REMEMBER, your child’s risk of measles is VERY LOW if up to date on the MMR vaccine. 

Common Symptoms and Complications:

• Nearly 100% of measles cases will present with these 3 symptoms together: runny nose, fever (often high, >101°F or 38.3°C), and conjunctivitis (red, watery eyes). 2-4 days later, the measles rash may appear, which starts on the face (usually at hairline and behind ears) and spreads downward (to neck, chest, back, then arms and legs). The rash usually appears when the fever is at its highest (often over 103°F or 39.4°C) and lasts about 5–6 days before gradually fading in the order that it appeared. 
• Ear Infections (~1 in 10 cases)
• Diarrhea (~1 in 10 cases)

Severe Complications:

• Pneumonia (~1 in 20 cases)
• Encephalitis (Brain Swelling) (~1 in 1,000 cases)

Long-Term Complications:

• Subacute Sclerosing Panencephalitis (SSPE) (~1 in 10,000 cases): A rare but fatal brain disease that can develop years after measles infection & cause progressive neurological deterioration.

How to Know If Your Vaccines Are Up to Date?

• Check Your Records: Ensure your child has received the 2 MMR vaccines. To be fully vaccinated against measles, 2 vaccines must be received >12 months (and the 2 doses should be spaced apart at least 28 days/4 weeks apart)
• Standard MMR Schedule: 
• 1st dose: 12–15 months old
• 2nd dose: 3–6 years old (the second dose of the MMR vaccine can be given as soon as 28 days after the first dose and still count toward full vaccination status). We are not currently recommending MMR vaccination prior to age 3 years unless traveling internationally or to an area with an active measles outbreak. This recommendation may change as the situation evolves. For parents with additional questions, please follow up with us via the patient portal so we can address further.

🔗 CDC MMR Vaccine Guidelines

Vaccine Recommendations for Children Under 12 Months as of February 24, 2025*

Infants 6–11 Months:

We do not routinely recommend the MMR vaccine for babies under 12 months old, unless they are traveling internationally or In an area with an active measles outbreak. This recommendation may change as the situation evolves. If needed, the MMR vaccine can be given as early as 6 months, but it does not provide full immunity. Babies who receive an early dose will still need two additional doses after their first birthday for full protection, since an early dose does not provide great protection. Since insurance coverage for early MMR doses can vary, families will need to pay upfront. We recommend calling your insurance provider to check if they will reimburse the cost.

For those traveling internationally or to an area with a measles outbreak, schedule an appointment with your primary care provider to discuss early vaccination. If you have questions about early vaccination (without international travel), please message us through the patient portal.

Infants Under 6 Months:

Though babies under 6 months cannot receive the MMR vaccine, they do have some protection from maternal antibodies passed during pregnancy. Additionally, to keep them safe, avoid locations where measles is circulating, and ensure caregivers and household members are fully vaccinated.

How to Protect Yourself & Your Children from Measles?

• Ensure Vaccination: The MMR vaccine is 97% effective after two doses.
• Practice Good Hygiene: Wash hands frequently and avoid touching your face.
• Avoid Exposure: Stay away from crowded places if possible if there are reported cases nearby.
• Boost Immunity for Infants: Please refer to the vaccine recommendation section. 

Conclusion

Keeping our community and children safe from measles starts with maintaining high vaccination rates. We are dedicated to providing accurate information and quality care for your family. If you have any questions about measles or vaccinations, please reach out to us through the patient portal for a faster response than by phone.

We appreciate your patience as we work hard to manage the increased volume of calls and inquiries. Our team is closely monitoring guidance from the CDC, Texas Department of State Health Services, AAP, and Dell Children's Infectious Disease Department. Updates will be posted on our website at www.pediatricassociates.net as new information becomes available.