March 24, 2025
Santa Fe, N.M. — As the measles outbreak spreads across southeastern New Mexico and neighboring West Texas, state health leaders are calling on residents to take swift action to protect themselves and their communities. In a recent broadcast of Health Para Todos on KSWV Suave Radio, hosts Dr. Arturo Gonzales and Larry Martinez sat down with Dr. Miranda Durham, Chief Medical Officer at the New Mexico Department of Health, and Andrea Romero, Director of the Department’s Immunization Division, to break down the scope of the outbreak and the ongoing vaccination response.
According to Dr. Durham, New Mexico has recorded 38 confirmed cases of measles since mid-February, primarily in Lea and Eddy Counties, which border Texas. The first cases emerged in Gaines County, Texas, and quickly crossed into southeastern New Mexico, underscoring what Dr. Durham called a “regional outbreak” driven by cross-border travel for work and shopping.
While measles had been declared eliminated in the U.S. in 2000, its resurgence highlights both the virus’s contagious nature and the importance of maintaining high vaccination rates. “Measles is one of the most infectious diseases we deal with,” said Dr. Durham. “It can hang in the air for up to two hours. And although many cases start with mild symptoms—fever, cough, rash—complications can include pneumonia, ear infections, encephalitis, and even death.”
Fortunately, the MMR (measles, mumps, and rubella) vaccine remains one of the most effective tools in public health, providing lifelong immunity after two doses. “New Mexico has strong vaccination coverage,” Dr. Durham noted, particularly in the affected counties. “But it only takes a small group of unvaccinated individuals for the virus to take hold.”
Andrea Romero, who leads statewide immunization efforts, said the response from the public has been encouraging. “Since the beginning of February, we’ve administered more than 11,000 MMR vaccines—a 70% increase over this time last year,” she reported. “And we’ve seen an even split between adults and children coming forward to get vaccinated.”
Romero emphasized the importance of access, especially in a state with vast rural areas. “We have nearly 400 enrolled providers statewide, including public health offices and our mobile vaccine unit. We’re reaching underserved communities and working closely with schools, churches, and local organizations to ensure no one is left behind.”
Still, both guests acknowledged ongoing challenges—including vaccine misinformation, much of it amplified on social media. “People are still influenced by long-debunked claims linking the MMR vaccine to autism,” said Dr. Durham. “It’s important to rely on trusted sources and not let fear override decades of scientific evidence.”
Romero added that her team works closely with community partners to combat myths and share culturally relevant, multilingual educational materials. “Building trust is key. That’s how we reach people where they are.”
For those unsure of their vaccination status, particularly adults born after 1957, Dr. Durham recommends checking with a provider or calling the Department of Health’s nurse helpline. “If you don’t have proof, it’s safe to get another dose,” she said. “And if you’re over 65, chances are you had measles as a child and have natural immunity.”
Both guests urged residents not to panic but to act responsibly. “This isn’t COVID,” said Dr. Durham. “We know this virus, and we have a vaccine that works. But now is the time to check your records and get vaccinated.”
To schedule a vaccine or get more information, residents can call the Department of Health’s nurse call center at 1-833-796-8773. Bilingual staff are available to assist.
As the show wrapped up, Gonzales and Martinez praised the Department of Health’s response and reminded listeners that while measles may be making headlines, the real story is the power of prevention.
“This is how we do it in New Mexico,” said Martinez. “Together, informed, and looking out for one another.”
Dr. Arturo Gonzales and Larry Martinez examine the growing measles outbreak impacting New Mexico and neighboring states in a timely and urgent discussion. Joining them are Dr. Miranda Durham, Chief Medical Officer, and Andrea Romero, Director of the New Mexico Department of Health’s Vaccination Division. Together, they explore the critical role of immunizations, the logistical challenges of vaccine distribution in rural areas, and the coordinated response by local communities and public health agencies working to contain the spread of this highly contagious disease.
