Health officials in New Mexico have confirmed that an unvaccinated resident tested positive for measles following their death, marking a possible second measles-related fatality in the United States this year.
The New Mexico Department of Health (NMDOH) announced the case on Thursday but stated that the official cause of death remains under investigation.
Earlier this year, the first measles-related death in a decade was reported in an unvaccinated school-aged child linked to an outbreak in western Texas, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).
New Mexico has reported 10 measles cases so far this year, with many concentrated in Lea County, which borders Texas. Health officials suspect a possible connection between the Texas and New Mexico outbreaks, though no definitive link has been established.
In Texas, the outbreak has grown to 159 confirmed cases, according to new data released Tuesday. Most of the infected individuals are either unvaccinated or have an unknown vaccination status. At least 22 people have required hospitalization.
Health authorities continue to urge vaccinations as the best protection against the disease. The CDC recommends two doses of the measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR) vaccine—one at 12 to 15 months of age and a second between 4 and 6 years old. One dose is 93% effective, while two doses provide 97% protection.
“We don’t want to see New Mexicans getting sick or dying from measles,” said Dr. Chad Smelser, deputy state epidemiologist for NMDOH. “The measles-mumps-rubella vaccine is the best protection against this serious disease.”
The CDC has recorded 164 measles cases across nine states this year, including Alaska, California, Georgia, Kentucky, New Jersey, New Mexico, New York, Rhode Island, and Texas. However, the actual number is likely higher due to reporting delays from state health agencies.
With the disease continuing to spread, health officials emphasize the importance of vaccination to prevent further infections and potential fatalities.
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