Possible Measles Death in New Mexico Sparks Urgent Health Warning

The state of Texas is STILL dealing with a major measles outbreak, and although El Paso has no confirmed cases, our neighbor city, New Mexico, unfortunately has a second possible measles-related death.

According to news reports, state health officials confirmed that the individual tested positive for the virus after their death and was unvaccinated. The official cause of death is still under investigation, but it follows another tragic case in western Texas—the first measles-related death in the U.S. in over a decade.

ICYMI: Texas is dealing with a major measles outbreak

With 159 cases reported so far, New Mexico isn’t far behind, with 10 confirmed cases, mostly in Lea County, which borders Texas. Officials are investigating whether the outbreaks are connected.

What’s the cause of the majority of these cases? 

Not surprisingly the culprit is—unvaccinated individuals. Health officials are urging everyone to get the measles, mumps, rubella (MMR) vaccine, which is 97% effective with two doses. The CDC recommends kids get their first dose between 12-15 months old and the second between ages 4-6.

With cases popping up in at least nine states, experts say it’s time to take measles seriously again. So, if you or your kiddo aren’t vaccinated, now might be the time to roll up that sleeve. 

Here’s a list of clinics where you can get vaccinated, courtesy of El Paso Matters:

The El Paso Department of Public Health:

• Lower Valley, 9341 Alameda Ave., 915-212-0758.
• Northeast, 9566 Railroad Drive, 915-212-6626. 
• Downtown, 721 Mesa St., 915-212-0756.
• West, 7380 Remcon Circle, 915-212-8890.

Immunize El Paso:

• East, 1400 George Dieter Drive, Suite 225. Open 8 a.m.-5 p.m. Monday-Friday; 9 a.m.-noon Saturday
• East, 6292 Trowbridge Drive. Open 8 a.m.-5 p.m. Monday-Tuesday, Thursday-Friday; 8 a.m.-7 p.m. Wednesday; 9 a.m.-noon Saturday
• Downtown (children-only immunizations), 513 W. San Antonio Ave., Suite B. Open 9 a.m.-3 p.m. Monday

Click Here For Pricing and More Details

Walgreen locations take online appointments for anyone wanting to get the Measles vaccine.