Midland Health Implements Safety Measures to Protect Community

In preparation as confirmed cases of the measles in West Texas increase, Midland Health is implementing safety procedures to protect patients, visitors, and staff.

“Our greatest priority is the well-being of our patients and community,” said Dr. Rohith Saravanan, Chief Medical Officer for Midland Health. “In alignment with the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) infection control recommendations and the Texas Department of State Health Services (DSHS), we have instituted measures to help stop the spread of measles.”

Entry Screening & Revamped Triage Process in the Emergency Department (ED)

• As patients and visitors enter the facility, they will be asked about symptoms to help mitigate the spread of measles.
• ED staff will screen patients for fever, rash, cough, runny nose, or red eyes, consistent with CDC and DSHS recommendations for identifying measles.
• Anyone with suspected symptoms will be isolated to prevent spread. This may include being asked to wait in your car until it is time for you to be seen.

Visitor Policy Updates

• Visitor policies are under review to protect vulnerable patients, ensuring that symptomatic or high-risk visitors follow appropriate guidelines and wear protective gear.

Vaccines, Symptoms, Self-Isolation & Call Ahead

• Safe & Effective Vaccine: The measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR) vaccine remains the most effective defense. Vaccines are available at the health department. No boosters are needed if fully vaccinated.
• Symptoms: High fever (≥101°F), runny nose, cough, red watery eyes, and a rash that often starts on the face/hairline and spreads downward. To reduce community spread, anyone with measles or measles-like symptoms should limit public contact.
• Call Ahead: If you suspect you or a loved one may have measles, or have been exposed, contact your pediatrician or primary care provider before heading to the Emergency Department. This precaution helps us prepare and reduce exposures. If you do not have a provider or would like to speak to a healthcare professional, please utilize 221DOCS (432-221-3627) or 68Nurse (432-686-8773).

“Vaccination truly is the key to halting this outbreak,” Dr. Saravanan added. “We encourage everyone to ensure their immunizations are up to date and to rely on credible health information to make informed choices.”

Resources:
https://www.cdc.gov/infection-control/hcp/measles
https://www.dshs.texas.gov/news-alerts/measles-outbreak-feb-18-2025