What is the role of DSHS when it comes to an outbreak like the measles?

DSHS is the state public health agency and coordinates the state’s response to outbreaks. DSHS is also the primary provider for public health services in Texas counties that do not have a local health department. So, we work at both a state and local level, coordinating the overall response, identifying additional resources that may be needed, and doing hands on ground level work too.

How does DSHS work with local health departments?

Public health is a team sport, and we at DSHS rely on strong partnerships with local health departments to keep Texans safe. DSHS staff at the state headquarters in Austin and at the eight regional offices meet regularly with local health department leaders and staff to collaborate on all topics related to public health. We communicate the most up-to-date information and guidance on disease prevention, and coordinate on disease investigations.

Where can nurses provide the best support when it comes to preventing or responding to contagious diseases?

Nurses play instrumental roles in so many areas of preventing disease and promoting health. Preventing and responding to contagious diseases is one of those important areas. Nurses are critical clinical professionals for disease surveillance and treatment, and for administering immunizations, which are one of our best ways to prevent the spread of vaccine preventable diseases. Nurses are also one of the most trusted sources of health information, so it is a great help and much appreciated when nurses can answer the questions of patients and communities regarding best practices for the prevention, treatment, and control of contagious diseases.

What general education does the public need most regarding preventing or treating measles?

The most important message that nurses can share with the communities and families they serve is the importance of being up to date with their immunizations, and for measles specifically that is the MMR (measles, mumps and rubella) vaccine.

Measles is very contagious, as if one person has it, up to 9 out of 10 people will become infected if they are not protected by the MMR vaccine.

The best way to prevent measles is by getting vaccinated with two doses of MMR vaccine. The MMR vaccine is very safe and very effective. The MMR vaccine provides long-lasting protection against all strains of measles.

DSHS encourages all eligible individuals to be up to date on MMR vaccination to prevent measles infection and spread.

For latest information on measles, visit Measles Outbreak in Texas.

There is no specific antiviral therapy for measles. Medical care is supportive and intended to help relieve symptoms and address complications such as bacterial infections.

How long is this outbreak predicted to last?

It is difficult to predict how long the outbreak will last, but we expect for it to continue for some time to come. Our heartfelt thanks to the Texas nursing community for all you do every day to fight this outbreak and keep Texas safe. TN