New Mexico Detects Measles Virus in Multiple Wastewater Sites

New Mexico health officials have detected a positive measles sample in wastewater from Roswell's Chaves County, indicating the potential for new measles cases despite no confirmed cases there since April 5. This detection is part of a statewide wastewater testing initiative begun in March, covering multiple counties including Albuquerque, Carlsbad, and Santa Fe, intended to supplement traditional case tracking and vaccination efforts. The New Mexico Department of Health emphasizes that wastewater results do not confirm specific cases but serve as an early warning to encourage residents to verify their MMR vaccination status. Currently, New Mexico reports a total of 81 measles cases, with symptoms including fever, cough, and a spreading rash. The wastewater surveillance follows a layered public health strategy to monitor infectious diseases, similar efforts are underway in Georgia, where wastewater testing is also used to track measles alongside other pathogens like COVID-19 and flu. Health officials advise those with symptoms to stay home and contact healthcare providers or helplines to prevent further spread.