Austin Public Health confirms first case of measles in Travis County since 1999; exposure includes areas of Northwest Austin

Austin Public Health officials confirmed Dec. 22 that a person has been diagnosed with measles, marking the first case in Travis County since 1999.

Officials are working with health departments in Central Texas to inform individuals who may have been exposed to the person with measles at locations in Austin, including businesses in Northwest Austin, according to a news release.

The public health department recommends people who were at the below sites on the dates listed to call their doctor immediately if they develop a fever before Jan. 1.

The sites and dates of possible exposure include:

• Dec. 14 (evening)
  • Chipotle Mexican Grill, 6301 W. Parmer Lane, Austin
• Dec. 14-16
  • H-E-B, 6001 W. Parmer Lane, Austin
• Dec. 15
  • Sip Saam Thai, 6301 W. Parmer Lane, Austin
• Dec. 15-16
  • Mandola’s Italian, 4700 W. Guadalupe St., Austin
• Dec. 16 from 2 p.m.-4 p.m.
  • Target, 10107 Research Blvd., Austin
  • Marco’s Pizza, 11011 Research Blvd., Austin
• Dec. 17 from noon-4 p.m.
  • Austin-Bergstrom International Airport, 3600 Presidential Blvd., United Airlines, gate 29 area

“Measles is an acute, highly contagious viral disease. A small number of cases are capable of quickly producing epidemics," said Dr. Mark Escott, interim health authority and medical director for Austin Public Health. "The best way to protect yourself and your family against measles and other vaccine-preventable diseases is by immunization."

The public health department recommends children receive the first dose of the measles vaccines between 12 and 15 months and receive a second dose between 4 and 6 years.

For more information, visit www.austintexas.gov/measles.