Possible Measles Exposure in Gillespie County

FREDERICKSBURG, Texas - On Wednesday, May 7, Gillespie County officials were notified by the Texas Department of State Health Services (DSHS) of a possible measles exposure in the County. The DSHS Public Health Region 8 (PHR 8) has shared the following information to make the public aware of the situation and the possible exposure.
Below are details shared by DSHS with County Officials....

An El Paso resident was infectious with measles while visiting Fredericksburg on April 26, 2025. Measles exposures may have occurred at the locations and times listed below:

Saturday, April 26th

· 1:30 to 4:30pm - Burger Burger (209 E Main St, Fredericksburg, TX)

· 2:30 to 4:30pm - Loca on Main (201 E Main St, Fredericksburg, TX)

· 3:00 to 5:00pm - Felt Boutique (204 E Main St, Fredericksburg, TX)

· 3:30 to 5:30pm - Allens Boots (131 E Main St, Fredericksburg, TX)

ABOUT MEASLES

Measles is a highly contagious viral disease that spreads through coughing, sneezing or simply being near someone infected. The virus can linger in the air for up to two hours after an infected person has left an area, making it easy to contract in shared spaces.

SYMPTOMS

· High fever

· Cough

· Runny nose

· Red, watery eyes

· Rash, typically starting on the face and spreading downward 2-5 days after initial symptoms

INFECTIOUS PERIOD

People with measles can spread the virus from four days before the rash appears to four days after.

POTENTIAL COMPLICATIONS AND HIGH-RISK GROUPS

While measles can infect anyone, complications can be severe and include ear infections, diarrhea, pneumonia, or, in rare cases, brain inflammation (encephalitis). Those at the highest risk include:

· Infants and children under 5 years old

· Pregnant women

· People with weakened immune systems

PREVENTION

Vaccination with the measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR) vaccine is the most effective way to prevent measles.

· Two doses of the MMR vaccine provide a 97% protection rate and long-lasting immunity.

· The MMR vaccine can be administered by your health care provider or at a pharmacy (if over the age of 14)

· The Texas Department of State Health Services recommends:

The first dose at 12-15 months of age

The second dose at 4-6 years of age

WHAT TO DO IF EXPOSED OR SYMPTOMATIC

If you believe you have been exposed to measles or are experiencing symptoms:

· Watch for symptoms , which typically develop 7-21 days after exposure.

· Isolate immediately if you have symptoms, to prevent spreading the virus to others.

· Contact your healthcare provider before going in to arrange testing in a way that minimizes exposure to others.

· Receiving a measles vaccine within 3 days or immunoglobulin (IG) within 6 days of exposure can prevent illness. Contact your healthcare provider for more information.