Oklahoma health experts monitor Texas measles outbreak, encourage vaccinations

Health officials in Oklahoma are closely monitoring a measles outbreak in Texas, which has now killed one child.

More states now have reported cases this morning, and the outbreak is raising concerns for many families here in Oklahoma.

RELATED: Measles in Oklahoma: 5 things to know

Joining the News 9 team Friday morning to answer some questions is OU Health Dr. Catherine Mims.

Q: What's the risk in Oklahoma for a similar outbreak like what has happened in Texas?

A: "Well, given that we're very near Texas and now it's spilled over into New Mexico, the risk is relatively high. Unfortunately, our vaccination rate in Oklahoma is only about 88%, and in a lot of counties,even less than that. So it puts us at a very high risk."

Q: What is measles? What do people need to know about it?

A: "Measles is a virus for which we have a very effective vaccine, and typically not a great treatment, because it's a virus and we just have to let our bodies take over. The symptoms look like fever, cough, congestion, and then a rash that starts at the top of the head and works its way down over three to five days."

Q: We've seen pictures of the rash, but what can you say to those who are unfamiliar with it?

A: "Many of the doctors are having to remind themselves what it looks like, because it's been many years, it's been over 10 [years] since we've had a death, and we just don't see as much measles with such an effective vaccine anymore."

Q: Does it affect certain ages more than others?

A: "Yes, absolutely so, because most adults at this point have been vaccinated. It affects primarily children aged one and younger, because they will not have been old enough to receive the vaccine yet, but certainly in the elderly population, they're going to be at higher risk as well."

Q: What can Oklahoma families do this morning to stay healthy and safe?

A: "If you haven't been vaccinated and are capable of being vaccinated, that means over the age of one, please go get the vaccine. It's super safe and effective. Just one dose even puts you above 90% immune, and if you are under one, if you have a child at home who's under one, be very careful around anyone who has cough, cold, or congestion symptoms. Adults can transmit it without even realizing that they have it, and wash hands and stay safe at home, if you can."