Measles Confusion: School Claims Case Confirmed, State Disagrees

CIBOLO, Texas — The Texas Department of State Health Services (DSHS) has stated that there is currently no confirmed measles case in the San Antonio area, contradicting a claim made by Legacy Traditional School Cibolo about a detected viral infection in a first-grade classroom earlier Thursday.

A spokesperson for DSHS, Chris Van Deusen, informed KSAT after 6 p.m. on Thursday that, “there are no confirmed (measles) cases in that area. Just because someone is being tested for measles doesn’t mean they have measles.” This announcement comes following the school’s assertion that they had traced a confirmed case to their campus, which has sparked concern among parents, particularly those with unvaccinated children.

The situation arose as parents received communication from the school saying they were taking precautions after confirming a measles case. The school reassured families that it would remain open Friday after a thorough sanitization of campus facilities. However, the DSHS has not received any reports supporting the school’s assertion, raising questions regarding the accuracy of their claims.

DSHS officials explained that the reporting process for a confirmed measles case depends on the residence of the patient. If the individual lives in Bexar County, the local health authority would handle the report. Residents of Guadalupe County, where the school is located, are required to report directly to DSHS. As per Van Deusen’s comments, the department aims to ensure that any suspected cases are properly tested and reported.

Legacy Traditional School did not respond to follow-up questions from KENS 5 by Thursday evening. Their official statement indicated that families directly notified should continue to follow established guidance, and that the school was coordinating with local health authorities to keep the community safe. Mayor Mark Allen of Cibolo indicated he is gathering more information about the situation, revealing a sense of uncertainty in the community.

The DSHS has reported an overall increase in measles cases across Texas, particularly in West Texas, where 124 cases have been confirmed. Of these, a small number involve vaccinated individuals; however, health authorities emphasize that the majority are among unvaccinated children.

The clarification from DSHS comes amidst broader concerns about vaccination coverage. Legacy Traditional Schools reported a 94.5% vaccination rate for the measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR) vaccine among its kindergarten students, which is shy of the 95% threshold recommended to achieve herd immunity.

Health officials emphasize the seriousness of measles, a highly contagious virus that can lead to severe complications, including pneumonia and encephalitis. Symptoms typically manifest as fever, rash, and respiratory distress, with a contagious window opening four days before the rash appears and lasting for another four days thereafter.

In light of the ongoing situation, officials are conducting regular updates and monitoring vaccination rates in the area. The community is encouraged to remain vigilant and ensure proper vaccination, particularly as the state anticipates additional exposure risks with upcoming public events.