The Southern Nevada Health District has identified the presence of the measles virus in wastewater samples taken from Clark County. As of now, there are no confirmed cases of measles in the county, which last reported an outbreak in 2018. The detection suggests the possibility of undiagnosed infections within the community, prompting health officials to issue renewed vaccination recommendations.
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), the measles-mumps-rubella (MMR) vaccine is highly effective, with a 97 percent efficacy rate after two doses. In a press release issued on Thursday, Cassius Lockett, the district health officer for the Southern Nevada Health District, emphasized the importance of the detection. “While a single wastewater detection does not mean we have confirmed measles cases or community transmission, it is a signal that shouldn’t be ignored,” he stated.
A follow-up wastewater sample collected shortly after tested negative for the virus, but experts remain vigilant. Brian Labus, an infectious disease epidemiologist and associate professor at the University of Nevada, Las Vegas (UNLV), explained the implications of the detection. “All this announcement tells us is that somebody is shedding measles in the community. It could be that they had the disease somewhere else and came back here at the very end of their recovery stage,” Labus noted. He stressed that while it does not indicate there is currently an active case in the community, health professionals must remain alert to respond swiftly to any potential outbreaks.
Measles is known for its high contagion rate and can pose serious health risks, particularly to young children. The World Health Organization declared measles eliminated in the United States in the year 2000. However, vaccination rates have experienced a decline, culminating in a significant outbreak in early 2025 in West Texas, which resulted in the highest number of reported cases in the U.S. since the disease was declared eliminated.
In response to the recent findings, the Southern Nevada Health District underscores the necessity for vaccinations, especially with the school year approaching. The MMR vaccine is a requirement for school enrollment in Clark County, and officials have assured that vaccinations are still available before August 11, 2025, the first day of school. Labus reiterated the importance of immunization, stating, “Kids should be fully immunized for measles if they’re going to school. The vaccine is the best way to prevent yourself or your loved ones from getting this disease.”
As the situation develops, health authorities continue to monitor wastewater samples closely and encourage residents to ensure their vaccinations are up to date. The proactive measures aim to maintain the health and safety of the community, particularly as the school year begins and children return to educational settings.
