Santa Fe Standard

The New Mexico Department of Health (NMDOH) has confirmed the first measles case of 2025 in the state, identified in an unvaccinated teenager from Lea County. The department is alerting residents about potential exposure locations and times.

Efforts are underway to ensure that individuals who may have been in contact with the infected person are up to date with their measles vaccinations. NMDOH is collaborating with the patient's family, Nor-Lea Hospital, and the local school district. The measles vaccine is reported to be 97% effective when two doses are administered.

Lea County shares a border with Gaines County, Texas, which is currently dealing with a measles outbreak involving at least 15 confirmed cases. However, officials state that the New Mexico patient had no recent travel history or exposure linked to the Texas outbreak.

Dr. Miranda Durham, NMDOH Chief Medical Officer, emphasized the importance of vaccination: “It is important to get up to date on vaccinations now, especially if you or your children are not fully immunized for measles.” She highlighted that measles can easily spread among those who are not current on their measles-mumps-rubella (MMR) vaccine.

To address this public health concern, NMDOH will host a vaccination clinic next week at the Hobbs Public Health Office in Lea County. No appointment will be necessary for attendees seeking vaccinations.

New Mexico experienced two measles cases in 2024 after a gap since 2021. Medical providers are urged to report suspected cases immediately to NMDOH through their hotline available around-the-clock at 1-833-SWNURSE (1-833-796-8773).

For further information regarding this situation, Robert Nott can be contacted at the office.