LEA COUNTY, N.M. — The New Mexico Department of Health confirmed the first case of measles this year, reported in Lea County.

State health leaders say the patient is an unvaccinated teen in Lea County. NMHealth is working with the teen’s family to identify anyone they may have come in contact with.

“Measles is one of, if not the most contagious viruses on the planet,” said Dr. Chad Smelser, deputy state epidemiologist.

Anyone who visited the following locations at these times may have been exposed to measles:

• Thursday, Feb. 6, from 5:30-9:30 p.m., at the Sixth Grade Academy gymnasium at 310 N. 5th St., in Lovington
• Sunday, Feb. 9, between 10 a.m. and 3:30 p.m., at Nor-Lea Hospital Emergency Department at 1600 Main St., in Lovington

“One person with measles can typically infect 16-18 other people. You can see how fast that can spread,” said Dr. Megan Brett, a UNM Hospital epidemiologist.

You can check your vaccination status online here.

NMHealth warned some residents in Lea County may be at risk for measles after receiving a report about two measles cases in the bordering Gaines County, in Texas. Since then, there have been 24 cases reported in Gaines County, all involving unvaccinated patients.

Measles is extremely contagious. Symptoms appear 1-3 weeks after exposure and include:

• Fever
• Cough
• Runny nose
• Red eyes

A red-spotted rash, which usually starts on the head or face, often follows these symptoms.

The best protection against measles is the vaccine. NMHealth is hosting vaccination clinics in Lea County each Wednesday and Thursday for the next two weeks at the Hobbs Public Health Office. Each clinic start at 9 a.m. You don’t need an appointment.

MORE:

• New Mexico health officials warn some residents are at risk for measles exposure
• 10 new cases of measles reported in West Texas county and New Mexico