News Summary
San Antonio residents are urged to stay vigilant following potential measles exposure linked to a visitor who spent time on the UTSA campus. An individual tested positive for measles after visiting various locations in the city on February 15. The local health department is monitoring symptoms in those who may have been in close proximity. With measles being highly contagious, officials emphasize the importance of vaccinations to avert outbreaks, as current vaccination rates in Bexar County fall short of the recommended levels.
San Antonio Residents, Beware of Measles Exposure!
San Antonio is buzzing with news of a recent potential exposure to measles. On February 15, an individual who later tested positive for this highly contagious disease spent time in the city, raising concerns among city officials and residents alike. The affected person hails from Gaines County, Texas, which is about 400 miles west of Bexar County. We all know Bexar County is a popular spot for students and families, especially with sights like the University of Texas at San Antonio (UTSA) and the scenic River Walk around.
What Happened?
On February 24, city officials issued a warning about the possible exposure to measles in San Antonio. It turns out, the infected person was on the UTSA main campus between 10 a.m. and 2 p.m. This means anyone who was around at that time should keep a watchful eye on their health.
After visiting UTSA, the individual explored several attractions along the River Walk from 2:30 to 5:30 p.m. These attractions included the Wax Museum, Ripley’s Believe It or Not, and Ripley’s Illusion Lab. To top off the day, they dined at Mr. Crabby’s Seafood and Bar in Live Oak from 6 to 8 p.m. If you were present at any of these locations during these times—or even up to two hours afterward—you need to monitor for symptoms.
Understanding Measles
So, why all this fuss about measles? First, let’s make it clear: measles is extremely contagious. It spreads through the air via respiratory droplets when an infected person coughs, sneezes, or even talks. What’s more, the virus can linger in the air and settle on surfaces for up to two hours after someone infected has left the area. That means individuals at risk can easily become infected just by breathing in contaminated air or touching a surface and then their face.
The symptoms of measles can hit hard! They include a high fever that can soar up to 105 degrees, a cough, runny nose, red and watery eyes, and spots inside the mouth. And don’t forget about the infamous rash: it typically appears between 3 to 5 days after other symptoms show up, starting at the face and then moving to the rest of the body. Yikes!
Why Vaccination Matters
Measles is not just an itchy rash; it can lead to severe complications, especially in young children or anyone with a weakened immune system. The good news? The measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR) vaccine is effective in preventing outbreaks. Unfortunately, in Bexar County, the current vaccination rate among children entering school is reported to be 94%. This rate is below the 95% threshold required for herd immunity, which protects everyone from outbreaks.
As of now, the Texas Department of State Health Services is keeping a close eye on 124 measles cases statewide, with most of these cases localized in West Texas. Local education officials have expressed concerns regarding these vaccination rates and public health safety in San Antonio schools. To combat this, the San Antonio Independent School District (SAISD) and other districts are strongly advising families to ensure that their children’s vaccinations are up to date.
What Should You Do?
If you’ve been in or around these locations during the specified times, it’s wise to keep an eye on your health and watch for those pesky symptoms. If you start feeling under the weather or if concerns arise, reach out to your healthcare provider. Better safe than sorry!
Stay safe, San Antonio, and remember, your health is in your hands!
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Low Vaccination Rates Raise Concerns in San Antonio Schools
Measles Exposure Alert for University Community
Cibolo Charter School Measles Case Raises Concerns
University Community in San Antonio Addresses Measles Risk
Measles Outbreak Risks UTSA Community Amid Rising Cases
San Antonio on High Alert After Measles Exposure
Measles Outbreak in Texas: What You Need to Know
Additional Resources
- KENS 5: First Measles Case in San Antonio
- Wikipedia: Measles
- KSAT: Potential Measles Exposure in San Antonio
- Google Search: Measles Symptoms
- News 4 San Antonio: Case of German Measles Confirmed
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Measles
- Fox San Antonio: Measles Case in San Antonio
- Google News: Measles Outbreak San Antonio
Author: STAFF HERE SAN ANTONIO WRITER
The SAN ANTONIO STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HERESanAntonio.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in San Antonio, Bexar County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Fiesta San Antonio, San Antonio Stock Show & Rodeo, and Dia de los Muertos. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Greater San Antonio Chamber of Commerce and United Way of San Antonio and Bexar County, plus leading businesses in retail, insurance, and energy that power the local economy such as H-E-B, USAA, and Valero Energy. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAustinTX.com, HERECollegeStation.com, HEREDallas.com, and HEREHouston.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Texas's dynamic landscape.
