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.
Clark County, WA – Authorities are investigating a helicopter crash that occurred Monday evening in the Amboy area of Clark County.
The Clark County Sheriff’s Office (CCSO) received reports of the incident at approximately 6:09 p.m., with the crash site located near 449th Street and NE Yale Bridge Road.
Emergency personnel from Fire District 10 responded quickly to the scene.
Upon arrival, crews confirmed that the helicopter’s two occupants had successfully exited the aircraft without injury.
Despite the fortunate outcome, firefighters identified a significant fuel leak originating from the wreckage.
Out of an abundance of caution and to mitigate environmental risks, the Washington State Department of Ecology was notified and is now involved in managing the fuel spill.
Both the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) and the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) have been informed of the incident and will be conducting a full investigation to determine the cause of the crash.
Deputies with the CCSO remain on scene to secure the area and will maintain control until it is officially turned over to federal investigators.
At this time, no additional information has been released.
Updates will be provided as the investigation progresses.