The New Mexico Department of Health has reported a positive measles sample detected through wastewater testing in Roswell. The sample, collected on June 3, is part of an ongoing initiative by the department, which has been conducting wastewater testing in 11 treatment facilities across the state since mid-March.
Dr. Daniel Sosin, NMDOH Medical Epidemiologist, said, "While wastewater testing cannot tell us the timing, location or number of people infected with measles, this detection tells us there was at least one person infectious with measles in Roswell around June 3 and puts us on notice there may be more cases in Chaves County in the coming days."
Chaves County last confirmed a laboratory case of measles on April 5. Currently, New Mexico reports 81 measles cases. Although the wastewater sample does not constitute an official case, it serves as a reminder for residents to verify their vaccination status regarding the measles, mumps and rubella (MMR) vaccine. Since February 1, 34,210 New Mexicans have received MMR vaccinations.
The NMDOH conducts weekly wastewater testing for measles in several locations including Albuquerque/Bernalillo County, Carlsbad, Chaparral, Deming, Las Cruces, Portales, Rincon, Rio Rancho, Roswell, Santa Fe and the South Central treatment plant in Doña Ana County.
Measles symptoms typically appear between seven to 21 days after exposure and include fever, cough, runny nose and red eyes. A red spotted rash usually follows these symptoms. Individuals can transmit measles from four days before to four days after the rash disappears.
Those experiencing symptoms are advised to stay home to prevent further spread and contact their healthcare provider or the NMDOH Helpline at 1-833-SWNURSE (1-833-796-8773) for guidance. More information about measles is available at http://measles.doh.nm.gov/.
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