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March 8, 2025 – Santa Fe, NM – New Mexico health officials have reported the death of an adult infected with measles, though the exact cause of death has yet to be confirmed. The case marks the latest in an ongoing measles outbreak in Lea County, near the Texas border.
According to the New Mexico Department of Health (NMDOH), the deceased individual was unvaccinated and did not seek medical attention before passing away. Officials have not disclosed further details, including the person’s exact age.
This case adds to the growing concern over measles infections in the region. In Lea County alone, ten cases have been confirmed—six among adults and four among children under 17. Of these, seven were unvaccinated, while the vaccination status of the remaining three remains unclear.
Lea County’s proximity to West Texas has raised concerns about a possible link to the ongoing outbreak in that region, where 159 cases have been identified. Last week, a school-age child died from measles in Texas, though New Mexico health officials have not yet established a direct connection between the outbreaks.
In response to the surge in cases, the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has deployed a team to Texas to support local public health officials in controlling the outbreak. The CDC warns that measles is a highly contagious respiratory virus capable of lingering in the air for up to two hours. It can infect up to 90% of unvaccinated individuals exposed to it.
Health experts continue to emphasize the importance of vaccination in preventing the disease. The measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR) vaccine is considered safe and highly effective. The CDC recommends the first dose for children between 12 and 15 months, with a second dose administered between ages 4 and 6.
“We don’t want to see New Mexicans getting sick or dying from measles,” said Dr. Chad Smelser, deputy state epidemiologist. “The MMR vaccine is the best protection against this serious disease.”
Disclaimer
This article is based on currently available information from health officials and agencies. The cause of death for the New Mexico patient has not yet been officially determined. Health guidance may evolve as more data becomes available. Readers are encouraged to stay updated through official health sources such as the CDC and NMDOH.
© 2025 The Associated Press.
