Canyon ISD Staff Member Tests Positive for Measles; Community Alert Issued

Health officials in the Texas Panhandle have confirmed the first local case of measles in the ongoing outbreak, leading to public health alerts and notifications to school districts. On Friday, the City of Amarillo Public Health Department and Canyon Independent School District announced that a staff member at Canyon Intermediate School has tested positive for the highly contagious virus.

Canyon ISD reports that the infected employee has not been on campus since Wednesday, March 26, which minimizes the risk of widespread exposure within the school. The district highlighted in a public statement that no additional known cases exist.

"Canyon ISD, in partnership with the City of Amarillo Public Health Department, is informing the community that a staff member at Canyon Intermediate School has tested positive for measles," the district stated.

Measles is a viral illness that spreads easily through coughing, sneezing, or close contact with someone who is infected. Symptoms generally manifest 7–14 days following exposure and may consist of fever, cough, runny nose, red eyes, and a characteristic rash.

Authorities advise families and staff to stay vigilant for symptoms and review their vaccination records. Canyon ISD advised, “If you believe you or your child may have been exposed or are showing symptoms, please call your healthcare provider before going in.”

The Amarillo Public Health Department has established a resource page at amarilloalerts.com and is urging concerned residents to contact them at (806) 378-6300 for assistance and updates.

A confirmed case in Potter and Randall counties has emerged alongside a national increase in measles cases, partly attributed to falling childhood vaccination rates. Health experts emphasize the significance of the MMR vaccine, which offers reliable protection against measles, mumps, and rubella.

Local health authorities and school officials have committed to collaborating to monitor the situation and ensure the public remains informed.

‍