Lynn County confirms measles case in ER, third West Texas case in week

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A week after the first case of measles was reported in West Texas in recent memory, Lynn County has reported its first measles case, making it the third case in the region.

The announcement came on Wednesday after Lynn County Healthcare System took to social media stating that there was a recent case of measles that had been seen at its emergency room.

More: What is measles? What you need to know about Texas cases, symptoms and vaccine

The system directed those who have children experiencing measles symptoms to contact their healthcare provider and the South Plains Health District at 806-637-2164 as soon as possible.

It also encouraged the public to consider vaccinating children with the two-dose MMR vaccine.

How many cases of measles are there in West Texas?

There have been three confirmed measles cases in West Texas as of Feb. 5, 2025 with two being in Gaines County and the third being in Lynn County.

Both Texas and New Mexico have issued a health advisory for measles.

Others are reading: West Texas county confirms second case of measles days after health officials confirm first case

What is measles?

According to the Mayo Clinic, measles is a serious and fatal childhood virus. The death rate of measles is on the decline globally, but it still kills around 200,000 people per year.

The Clinic further states that the U.S. hasn't faced a widespread outbreak in the past 20 years. However, recent U.S. cases tend to originate outside of the country and in those who are not vaccinated.

However, even though it heavily impacts children, adults can still get measles.

What are the symptoms of measles?

According to Boston Children's Hospital, the symptoms of measles are as follows:

• Hacking cough.
• Redness and irritation of the eyes.
• Fever.
• Small red spots with white centers that appear on the inside of the cheek — these usually occur two days before the rash on the skin appears.
• A rash described as deep, red, and flat, starting on the face and spreading down to the trunk, arms and legs; this rash usually begins as small, distinct lesions, which then combine as one big rash.
• Koplick spots — white spots in the mouth
• Runny nose.
• Sore throat.
• Red eyes.
• Cough.
• Body aches.

According to the hospital, it takes between eight and 12 days for children to develop symptoms of the measles but it can be one to two days before the onset of symptoms and three to five days after the rash develops.