Louisiana Surgeon General Ralph Abraham stated that health officials are on alert as the worst U.S. measles outbreak in decades spreads in Texas and New Mexico. Abraham says symptoms of cough, runny nose, sore throat and rash don’t appear right away.
“Most people are spreading the virus before the rash appears and four days after the rash appears," Dr. Abraham said. "Now, that’s the norm, but not everybody follows that norm of course.”
Louisiana has yet to report a case, but Dr. Abraham urged unvaccinated individuals to get the measles vaccine, calling it the best protection. That call comes two weeks after Dr. Abraham approved an order prohibiting the Louisiana Department of Health from holding vaccination events and from promoting mass vaccination efforts.
“The MMR is a good vaccine," Dr. Abraham said. "I recommend it for my parents and the children that they have. It does give good immunity. It’s a two-dose vaccine.
Texas and New Mexico have reported 99 confirmed cases, mostly in unvaccinated individuals. Dr. Abraham maintains that the vaccine is safe and effective.
“And if you get those two doses, in 99% of the caases its good for life,” Dr. Abraham said.
Dr. Abraham advises anyone who suspects they have measles to stay home to prevent further spread.