Santa Fe Standard

The New Mexico Department of Health (NMDOH) has confirmed two new cases of measles in Lea County, bringing the total to three this week. These cases meet the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s criteria for an outbreak due to being unrelated.

Dr. Chad Smelser, NMDOH Deputy State Epidemiologist, stated, “We are investigating every suspected case, and we encourage sick individuals with symptoms consistent with measles to seek medical care.” The department is notifying those potentially exposed and offering guidance on prevention.

The outbreak in Lea County is adjacent to Gaines County in Texas, where cases have increased significantly from 2 to 48 within two weeks. Although a link between the outbreaks is suspected, it has not been confirmed.

Residents who visited certain locations at specified times may have been exposed. They are advised to monitor for symptoms and contact healthcare providers if symptoms develop, mentioning possible exposure before visiting a clinic.

Free measles vaccination clinics will be available at five public health locations in Lea County over the next two weeks without appointments. Those experiencing symptoms should call ahead: Hobbs Office at (575) 397-2463 or Lovington Office at (575) 396-2893 for guidance based on symptom severity.

These are New Mexico's first reported measles cases since 2024 when two cases were identified. The previous occurrences before last year were in 2021.

For more information about this situation, Robert Nott can be contacted directly at the office.