Local News
New Mexico Department of Health Confirms Measles Case in Deceased Lea County Resident
Santa Fe, NM – The New Mexico Department of Health (NMDOH) has confirmed that a deceased resident of Lea County tested positive for measles, marking a rare and serious case of the highly contagious disease.
The New Mexico Office of the Medical Investigator is currently determining the official cause of death.
However, laboratory testing conducted by the NMDOH Scientific Laboratory has confirmed the presence of the measles virus in the individual.
Officials report that the deceased was unvaccinated and did not seek medical care prior to passing.
It remains unclear how or where the individual contracted the virus.
Measles is a highly contagious respiratory illness that can lead to severe complications, hospitalizations, and even death.
According to NMDOH:
- 1 in 5 measles cases requires hospitalization
- Approximately 3 in every 1,000 cases result in death
With ongoing measles exposure concerns in Lea County, NMDOH is urging all residents to get vaccinated to protect themselves, their families, and the community.
The measles vaccine (MMR) is safe, highly effective, and the only proven prevention against the disease.
Residents who are unsure of their vaccination status are encouraged to contact their healthcare provider or local health department for guidance.
For more information on measles prevention and vaccinations, visit www.nmhealth.org or call your local NMDOH public health office.
Volusia County, Fla. — A 16-year-old boy has died after being found unresponsive in the Indian River during a weekend camping and fishing trip, according to the Volusia County Sheriff’s Office.
Authorities identified the teen as Hunter McKelvin of Paisley. Deputies said he was discovered face-down in the water Saturday morning near a small island east of Maynard May Park in Edgewater.
Members of the group located the teen and immediately began CPR before transporting him by boat to Maynard May Park.
Upon arrival, officers with the Edgewater Police Department and other emergency responders took over life-saving efforts.
McKelvin was then transported to a local hospital, where he was pronounced deceased later that morning.
Investigators reported that no visible injuries were observed, and there were no immediate signs of foul play or suspicious circumstances during the initial investigation.
An autopsy has been scheduled as authorities continue to examine the circumstances surrounding the incident.