Lubbock Officials Confirm Measles Exposure at Walmart, Target

Lubbock Public Health (LPH) has confirmed two possible measles exposure sites in the city. They are telling people to keep an eye out for signs after the first measles-related death in the state earlier today.

LPH says that people may have been exposed to measles at:

February 19, 5:30 p.m.: Walmart (4215 S. Loop 289)

February 20 at 5:30 p.m.: Target (730 2nd Avenue North)

Officials say that people in these places during the times given should be on the lookout for fever, cough, runny nose, red eyes, and a red rash. The virus is straightforward to catch because it stays in the air for up to two hours and spreads through breathing droplets.

At the same time, Texas is dealing with its biggest measles outbreak in decades. 124 cases have been recorded in nine counties, mainly in the South Plains and Panhandle. Health officials stress that the MMR vaccine is highly recommended and can avoid measles 97% of the time.

"Measles is a serious illness that can lead to severe complications, especially in children," LPH told us. People who are exposed should stay home and call their doctor or 806-775-2933 for help.

Visit mylubbock.us/vaccine to find out more about where you can get vaccinated.

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