Second Measles Death Reported in the U.S.

A measles outbreak has affected 9 states in the U.S. so far, with now two deaths reported. The first death was a school-aged child in Texas who was unvaccinated.

There now has been a second death reported - this time an adult in New Mexico.

The Measles Outbreak

West Texas has been grappling with a measles outbreak for months. According to Texas Health and Human Services, 159 measles cases have been reported - 22 of which have been hospitalized.

Although measles are more common in children, the virus can also affect adults and can be serious for all ages. Complications with measles most often occur with children under the age of 5 and adults over the age of 20.

People with weakened immune systems or those unvaccinated are at higher risk of contracting the virus.

According to the National Foundation for Infectious Diseases, "measles is the most contagious virus known to humans." For each infected person, they can infect up to 18 other people - hence why these outbreaks can go from a small number to double or even triple digits so quickly.

Around 90% of unvaccinated people exposed to measles will catch it.

Adult Dies of Measles

On Thursday, the New Mexico Department of Health reported its first measles death - making it the second in the U.S.

While the official cause of death is still under investigation, the person tested positive for measles after they died. They were unvaccinated.

Measles Symptoms

Measles is a serious illness that affects both children and adults.

Here are the common symptoms to look out for:

• High fever

• Sensitivity to light

• Dehydration

• Cough

• Rash

Possible more serious complications include:

• Pneumonia (affects 1 in 20 cases)

• Seizures

• Hearing loss

• Vision loss

• Permanent lung damage

• Weakened immune system

While there is no specific medicine to treat measles, hospital care often includes IV fluids and vitamin A supplements. Some patients may need help breathing with a ventilator. About 1 to 3 in every 1,000 children with measles may die from the disease.

Measles can be very serious, especially for young children. Vaccination is the most effective way to prevent the disease and its complications.

States Affected by Measles

While Texas and New Mexico has a large amount of the measles cases, they aren't the only states that have been impacted by the outbreak.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention has confirmed 164 measles cases in eight other states this year: Alaska, California, Georgia, New Jersey, New Mexico, New York and Rhode Island.