Measles Exposure Potentially Affecting San Marcos Residents

By Emma Peters 

Assistant Director of News 

SAN MARCOS – The Hays County Health Department (HCHD) reported that the risk of measles spreading in the county remains low after an individual who visited Texas State, Buc-ee’s and Twin Peaks last month tested positive for the disease. 

Residents who were near Texas State University between 3 p.m. and 8 p.m., or at Twin Peaks Restaurant at 1207 Purple Heart Trail from 6 p.m. to 10 p.m. on Feb.14th may have been in proximity to the individual who tested positive for measles. 

Measles, a highly contagious virus, infects 90% of individuals who are unvaccinated or have never had a measles infection upon exposure. Symptoms of measles include fever and a rash, which may appear four to 21 days after exposure. 

In response, Local health authorities are working in collaboration with the Texas Department of State Health Services (DSHS) to notify those who may have been exposed. Hays County Judge Ruben Beccera emphasized the importance of how health care workers react to the contagious nature of measles. 

“The HCHD is acting with haste to ensure the readiness and preparedness of partner agencies in response to this notification,” said Beccera. “The county has taken great strides to improve our response to public health emergencies. I am confident that the department will be capable of minimizing the impact of a potential measles outbreak in our county. I will work with the [health] department and Office of Emergency Services to offer additional resources as needed.” 

Individuals who suspect they have been exposed should monitor for signs of illness and take immediate action if symptoms develop. Individuals should stay home, avoid school or work, and call a healthcare provider. It is advised to notify the healthcare provider in advance of the potential measles exposure to ensure appropriate precautions are taken before seeking treatment. 

In efforts to contain the spread of measles, the Texas State University Health Center  emphasized the importance of staying informed and taking precautions: 

How to protect yourself. 

There is no cure for measles, but the MMR vaccine (measles, mumps, and rubella) provides strong protection:    

• 1 dose = About 93% protection 

• 2 doses = About 97% protection    

• A booster shot is not needed. If you’re unsure of your vaccination status, check your childhood vaccine records.    

Where to get the vaccine: 

• University Health Services – MMR vaccines available through the Nurse Clinic.
  Call 512-245-2161 to schedule an appointment. 

• Local pharmacies and health clinics. 

• In Hays County, vaccines for uninsured persons are available through Communicare. 

Who should NOT get the vaccine? 

Some people should avoid the MMR vaccine, including: 

• Those with a severe allergy to ingredients like neomycin 

• Pregnant individuals 

• People with immune system issues (such as HIV or cancer treatments) 

• People born before 1957 are considered naturally immune 

What to do if you feel sick or were exposed: 

If you develop symptoms or have been exposed to measles:    

• Stay home and isolate yourself 

• Call University Health Services or an urgent care clinic for guidance 

• A telemedicine visit may be recommended to prevent spreading the virus    

For further assistance, the Hays County Health Department encourages residents to reach out to their healthcare providers or local health authorities. Local health agencies continue to work together to monitor the situation and minimize the spread of the virus. 

For more information on measles and vaccinations visit https://www.cdc.gov/measles/vaccines/index.html