Lufkin, Angelina County, Texas— 2/27/2025 – 3/2/2025
Dear Friends and Neighbors, we know folks in Angelina County take pride in looking out for one another. That’s why we want to share an important message about measles—one of the most contagious diseases out there. With new cases popping up in West Texas, and one recorded death you may be wondering: Is our community ready if measles comes here?
What You Need to Know
Measles is a virus and spreads through the air; it can survive on surfaces for hours and will in a room or public space long after the infected person leaves. If one person gets the measles, 9 out of 10 unvaccinated people who shared the space or were nearby also will get the measles. In a tight-knit community like ours, that means measles can move fast through schools, churches, and local businesses, exposing many people to the virus before you even know it’s here. Measles start with fever, cough, and runny nose symptoms before a rash appears. The measles virus can lead to pneumonia, brain swelling, and even death, especially in children and those with weak immune systems. There is no cure for measles, and hospitals in rural areas may have limited capacity to handle severe cases.
What Happens If Measles Hits Angelina County?
• Schools will be impacted. If measles is detected, unvaccinated students could be sent home for at least 21 days or longer. Are families prepared for that?
• Parents will miss work. Who will stay home with kids who can’t go to school?
• Medical care is limited. Families may have to travel hours to Houston or Dallas for specialized treatment.
• Infants are especially at risk. Babies under 12 months are too young to be vaccinated and depend on the rest of us to keep them safe. If infected by measles, infants are at high risk for severe complications, a reality no parent wants to face.
What Can We All Do?
Check your child’s vaccine records—If they haven’t had both doses of the MMR vaccine, don’t wait. The best way to keep measles out of Angelina County is to make sure your family is protected. Talk to your doctor or call the Angelina County & Cities Health District (ACCHD) to schedule a vaccine appointment.
Get reliable information. There’s a lot of noise out there and it is important to turn to trusted experts for medical information. ACCHD has been looking out for the health of our families and neighbors for more than 50 years. The Texas Department of State Health Services, with over 120 years of experience, and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, with nearly 80 years, have long been trusted sources for disease prevention. If you have questions, turn to these medical professionals for reliable information on measles and vaccines.
Don't wait to get checked out if you or your child need care. Measles moves fast, and early care and being informed can make all the difference. Clinics and hospitals take precautions to protect patients. If you suspect you or someone you know has been exposed to the virus, don’t let fear keep you from getting the care you need.
What is the Health District Doing?
ACCHD is working to protect our community against a harmful and potentially deadly measles outbreak, by arming our people with accurate information, and access to life-saving vaccinations. We offer Measles/Mumps/Rubella (MMR) vaccinations to uninsured/underinsured/Medicaid/CHIP children and uninsured adults. Insured individuals should consult their physician. The Immunization department is open Monday-Thursday from 7:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. For details, visit https://www.acchd.us.
Let’s work together to keep our kids safe, our schools open, and our community strong.
Yours in service,
Kristina Childress, Senior Public Health Official, ACCHD
Dr. Kindrell Tucker, Medical Director, Local Health Authority, ACCHD