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  • Sole Searching: Top Factors to Consider When Choosing the Perfect Workout Shoes for Your Fitness Goals (Keyword: workout shoes)

    Sole Searching: Top Factors to Consider When Choosing the Perfect Workout Shoes for Your Fitness Goals (Keyword: workout shoes)

    When it comes to reaching your fitness goals, having the right gear is essential. One of the most important components of a successful workout is the right pair of shoes. As the old adage goes, "the right shoes can make all the difference." But with so many options on the market, how do you know which pair is right for you? In this article, we’ll explore the top factors to consider when choosing the perfect workout shoes for your fitness goals.

    Understanding Your Fitness Goals

    The first step in selecting the perfect workout shoes is to define your fitness goals. What do you want to achieve with your workouts? Are you a casual jogger, a serious athlete, or a yoga enthusiast? Different fitness goals require different levels of support, stability, and cushioning. For example, if you’re a runner, you’ll want shoes that provide excellent arch support and shock absorption to protect your joints from the impact of each step. If you’re a yoga practitioner, you’ll want shoes that offer flexibility and grip to help you maintain balance and stability in challenging poses.

    Fit and Sizing

    A proper fit is crucial for a comfortable and effective workout. The shoes should feel snug but not too tight, with enough room in the toe box to wiggle your toes. Measure your feet at the end of the day, as feet tend to swell throughout the day. Consider getting your feet measured at a specialty shoe store or online retailer that offers free returns and exchanges. Remember, it’s better to err on the side of caution and go up a size if you’re unsure.

    Cushioning and Support

    Cushioning and support are essential for working out, particularly for high-impact activities like running or jumping. Look for shoes with adequate midsole cushioning and a drop (heel-to-toe offset) that fits your stride length and running style. Higher-quality shoes often feature advanced materials like gel, foam, or carbon fiber to provide extra support and shock absorption. Pay attention to the shoe’s arch support, as well, as this can make a big difference in reducing fatigue and preventing injuries.

    Breathability and Ventilation

    A breathable shoe is essential for keeping your feet cool and dry. Look for shoes with mesh panels or perforations to allow for airflow and moisture-wicking materials to keep your feet dry. Avoid shoes with thick, heavy designs that can trap heat and moisture. Instead, opt for shoes with a lightweight, airy feel that will keep your feet comfortable during even the most intense workouts.

    Style and Comfort

    Let’s face it: fit and function are important, but style matters too. Choose shoes that make you feel confident and inspired to tackle your workouts. Consider the color, design, and overall aesthetics that appeal to you. While functionality is crucial, the right shoes can also boost your mood and motivation.

    Traction and Stability

    If you’re a fan of high-intensity interval training (HIIT) or weightlifting, you’ll want shoes with excellent traction and stability. Look for shoes with a stable heel and a low profile to prevent excessive movement during intense exercises. Consider shoes with a rocker sole or a pivot point to help you maintain stability and control.

    Budget and Quality

    Finally, consider your budget and the quality of the shoes. High-quality shoes made with premium materials may be pricier, but they often provide better support, durability, and overall performance. Set a budget and stick to it, balancing the cost with the level of quality you’re willing to invest in.

    Conclusion

    Choosing the perfect workout shoes can be daunting, but by considering these top factors, you’ll be well on your way to selecting the right pair for your fitness goals. Remember to identify your fitness goals, ensure a proper fit, prioritize cushioning and support, consider breathability and ventilation, and prioritize style and comfort. With the right shoes, you’ll be ready to tackle even the most challenging workouts with confidence and motivation.

    FAQs

    Q: What is the best workout shoe for beginners?
    A: For beginners, look for shoes with a comfortable, supportive design that can accommodate various foot shapes and sizes. Good options include cross-training shoes or tennis shoes.

    Q: Can running shoes be used for other types of workouts?
    A: While running shoes are designed for running, they can be used for other high-impact activities like HIIT or other cardio exercises. However, for low-impact activities like yoga or Pilates, consider a shoe with a more flexible sole and less cushioning.

    Q: How often should I replace my workout shoes?
    A: Aim to replace your shoes every 300-500 miles or every 3-6 months, depending on the frequency and intensity of your workouts. Worn-out shoes can lead to injuries and decreased performance.

    Q: Can I wear workout shoes for everyday activities?
    A: While workout shoes can be stylish, they’re designed for high-intensity activities. For everyday activities like walking or casual outings, consider a more relaxed, comfortable shoe that provides better arch support and stability.

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  • Why Is Sorghum One of My New Favorite Grains? 

    Why Is Sorghum One of My New Favorite Grains? 

    Learn why sorghum is one of my favorite new grains.

    “Despite playing a significant role in Africa and Asia as a staple grain, sorghum has only recently emerged as a potential human food source in the developed world.” And it isn’t just a principal grain in many parts of the world, but it’s “critical in folk medicine” traditions, too. What might its health benefits be? There are some in vitro data from test tubes and petri dishes, as well as in vivo data, meaning “within the living” in laboratory animals, but only in the last decade have we started seeing human trials.

    In one study, participants were asked to eat sorghum pancakes or corn pancakes for supper every day for three weeks. Both groups saw significant, 20 to 30 percent drops in their cholesterol, but all participants were also “requested not to consume eggs and other cholesterol-boosting foodstuff,” so that may very well have played a role.

    Another study used biscuits. Those eating sorghum biscuits said they felt more satiated than when they ate wheat biscuits, but that “did not translate to differences in intake at the subsequent ad-libitum [all-you-can-eat] meal.” So, does it matter that they subjectively felt more satiated if that did not cause them to eat any less? Unsurprisingly, when put to the test, those eating sorghum versus wheat biscuits didn’t lose any weight, though the data are a bit mixed. A recent study concluded that “sorghum can be an important strategy for weight loss in humans.” However, those in the sorghum group didn’t actually lose more weight. They did eat hundreds more calories a day, though, and they still lost more body fat, as you can see below and at 1:41 in my video The Health Benefits of Sorghum. 

    This may be because of their greater fiber consumption or intake of other goodies, like the resistant starch in sorghum. The vehicle the researchers used was an artificially flavored, colored, and sweetened powdered drink mixture of water, milk powder, and either sorghum or wheat flour. That may be good for a study since you can make a blinded control, but it leaves you wondering what would happen if you actually ate the whole food.

    The resistant starch is exciting, though. Most of the starch in sorghum is either slow-starch—that is, slowly digestible—or fully resistant to digestion in the small intestine, which offers a banquet bounty of prebiotics for our good gut flora down in our colon. Evidently, it isn’t the sorghum starch itself, but interactions with the proteins and other compounds that effectively act as starch blockers, inhibiting our starch-munching enzymes. Sorghum ends up with “the lowest starch digestibility” among grains, which is why, traditionally, it was considered to be an “inferior” grain—but inferior in the sense of not providing as many calories. (That’s a good thing in the age of epidemic obesity.) 

    When study participants were given either a whole-wheat muffin (the control) or a sorghum muffin, with both containing the same amount of starch, researchers saw significantly higher blood sugars 45 minutes to two hours after subjects ate the wheat muffin, as shown below and at 2:58 in my video.

    They also saw a higher insulin spike, starting almost immediately after consuming the wheat muffin, as seen below, and at 3:03.

    Overall, after consumption of the sorghum muffin, researchers found a 25 percent lower blood sugar response, and the participants’ bodies had to release less than half the insulin to deal with it, as seen here and at 3:11 in my video. 

    The same type of results were found with people with diabetes. Researchers saw a lower blood sugar spike with sorghum porridge compared to grits, and the participants’ bodies could deal with it with a fraction of the insulin. 

    So, we need to educate people on how healthy sorghum is—and, some suggest, “develop products that are…healthy, convenient to use, and tasty.” No need! Sorghum is already healthy, convenient, and tasty just the way it is. I just press a single button on my electric pressure cooker with two parts water and one part sorghum, and it’s ready in 20 minutes. You can make a big batch and use it all week just like you would rice. 

    Of course, there isn’t big money for the food industry when people eat the intact, whole grain. Instead, the industry is looking at sorghum for its “enormous potential for exploitation” in creating “functional foods and food additives.” (Did you know that adding sorghum to pork or turkey patties can decrease their “cardboardy flavor”? Why eat sorghum when you can instead use it to make gluten-free beer?) 

    It’s funny. When I wrote in How Not to Diet about taxpayer subsidies going to the sugar, corn syrup, oil, and livestock industries to subsidize cheap animal feed to help make Dollar Menu meat, I jokingly asked, “When was the last time you sat down to some sorghum?” Now that we know how good it is for us, maybe we should be taking advantage of the quarter billion dollars the United States is spending to prop up the sorghum industry and sit down to some sorghum after all.

    If you missed the previous video, check out Is Sorghum a Healthy Grain?

    My How Not to Diet Cookbook is full of delicious and healthful grain recipes. Check it out here.

    “Resistant starch”? Learn more about Resistant Starch and Colon Cancer and Getting Starch to Take the Path of Most Resistance. 

    For more on the benefits of different grains, see related posts below.



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  • Rare Water Allergy Causes Excruciating Pain For Woman—From Drinking To Showering, She Shares Her Daily Struggle

    Rare Water Allergy Causes Excruciating Pain For Woman—From Drinking To Showering, She Shares Her Daily Struggle

    You may never realize how often water touches our lives until you have a disorder like the 25-year-old young mother from the U.K. who describes simple daily activities such as washing hands, drinking water, or taking a bath as “excruciatingly painful”.

    An extremely rare condition called aquagenic urticaria makes the life of Kendall Bryce, from Durham, UK, a real struggle. As a young mother of one, pregnant with her second child, she finds it difficult to take care of herself and or her child while battling the condition.

    “I’ve never been able to give my one-year-old son a bath. My mom has to do it for me. And I even feel my throat burning when I drink water,” she said.

    “It really is a daily struggle. I can only have a bath or take a shower twice a week because of how excruciating the pain is, so I constantly worry I stink,” said Bryce.

    Bryce’s condition began when she was just 15 when she started noticing hives after she took a bath. But little did she realize that was the beginning of her battle with water allergy until she was diagnosed with the condition four years back.

    “The GP didn’t have a clue what to do. It’s just such a rare condition, so not many people have it and not many people know about it,” Bryce recalled, still living with the constant pain. The pain is so severe that her body sometimes goes into shock.

    “My life is dictated by the weather as I have to avoid rain — and even hot humid days. I check the forecast every day and stay home if it’s raining or going to rain, but if I get caught out by surprise, my body reacts and it’s really painful,” she added.

    There is currently no cure for water allergy, but treatment options are available to manage the symptoms. Treatments include the use of oral antihistamines, topical medications like creams or emulsions, phototherapy using artificial UV light, and sometimes other medications like asthma drugs, anabolic steroids, or SSRIs.

    While pregnant, Bryce’s treatment options are however limited. “They’ve tried lots of different medications but I kept reacting. I still haven’t found something that helps,” Bryce said. However, she hopes that by sharing her story, she might connect with someone who knows how to treat her condition.

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  • Craving Sugary Treat After Meals? Here’s Why You Always Have Room For Dessert

    Craving Sugary Treat After Meals? Here’s Why You Always Have Room For Dessert

    Do you ever find yourself craving something sweet even after a big meal? Or wonder how you still have room for dessert despite feeling full? Researchers now suggest that the phenomenon known as “dessert stomach” is linked to the brain.

    In a recent study, researchers investigated the phenomenon in mice and found that they ate sugar even when they were full. While analyzing the brains, they discovered that a group of nerve cells called POMC neurons triggered the craving for sugar.

    When the mice ate sugar, these neurons released ß-endorphin, a natural opiate that made them feel rewarded and caused them to eat more, even if they were full. This effect was specific to sugar, not other foods. When the researchers blocked this pathway, the mice stopped eating extra sugar, but only when they were full. The inhibition of the ß-endorphin did not affect the hungry mice.

    The researchers also found that the activation of endorphins began even before the mice started eating sugar, as soon as they sensed it. Interestingly, the opiate was also released in the brains of mice that had never eaten sugar before.

    “As soon as the first sugar solution entered the mice’s mouths, ß-endorphin was released in the “dessert stomach region”, which was further strengthened by additional sugar consumption,” the researchers explained.

    When a similar trial was conducted in humans, researchers used brain scans on volunteers after they received a sugar solution through a tube. They found that the same region of the brain responded to sugar in humans where there are many opiate receptors close to satiety neurons.

    “From an evolutionary perspective, this makes sense: sugar is rare in nature but provides quick energy. The brain is programmed to control the intake of sugar whenever it is available,” explained Henning Fenselau, research group leader at the Max Planck Institute for Metabolism Research and head of the study.

    The researchers hope their findings could be valuable for treating obesity. “There are already drugs that block opiate receptors in the brain, but the weight loss is less than with appetite-suppressant injections. We believe that a combination with them or with other therapies could be very useful. However, we need to investigate this further,” Fenselau added.

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  • Rare “Gorilla Cherry” Secret Helps Support A Healthy Prostate

    Rare “Gorilla Cherry” Secret Helps Support A Healthy Prostate

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  • The Mindfulness Revolution: Why This Ancient Practice is More Relevant Than Ever

    The Mindfulness Revolution: Why This Ancient Practice is More Relevant Than Ever

    The Mindfulness Revolution: Why This Ancient Practice is More Relevant Than Ever

    The concept of mindfulness has been around for thousands of years, dating back to ancient Eastern cultures such as Buddhism and Taoism. However, in recent years, mindfulness has experienced a resurgence in popularity, with its popularity spanning across the globe, transcending cultural boundaries, and infiltrating various aspects of modern life. As a result, the once obscure practice has become a mainstream phenomenon, with its significance and relevance only continuing to grow.

    A Modern Malady: The Need for Mindfulness

    In today’s fast-paced, technology-driven world, the need for mindfulness is more pressing than ever. With the constant barrage of information, stimuli, and distractions, our minds are more prone to excess stress, anxiety, and disconnection. The monastery-dwelling Buddha himself would likely agree that the proliferation of technology has created a society plagued by "monkey mind" (or "kleshas" in Sanskrit), where our thoughts are like a restless, chattering monkey, constantly jumping from one idea to the next without ever truly focusing or being present.

    In this chaotic environment, mindfulness offers a much-needed reprieve, providing a chance to calm the mind, focus on the present, and cultivate a deeper sense of connection with ourselves and the world around us. By incorporating mindfulness into daily routines, individuals can develop greater self-awareness, improve their mental and physical well-being, and enhance their overall quality of life.

    The Science Behind Mindfulness

    Studies have yielded impressive results, highlighting the numerous benefits of mindfulness in both the short and long term. Just a few examples include:

    • Reduced stress and anxiety: Mindfulness practices have been shown to decrease symptoms of anxiety and depression, as well as alleviate chronic pain and fatigue.

    • Improved focus and concentration: Regular mindfulness practice has been proven to enhance attention span, memory, and cognitive function.

    • Boosted mood and emotional regulation: Mindfulness has been linked to increased happiness, emotional intelligence, and emotional well-being.

    Practicing Mindfulness in Modern Times

    The beauty of mindfulness lies in its adaptability, allowing individuals to incorporate its principles into their daily lives in various forms and frequencies. Some popular methods include:

    • Meditation: Sitting in silence, focusing on the breath, and observing thoughts without judgment.

    • Yoga: Combining physical postures, breathing techniques, and meditation to cultivate greater awareness.

    • Body scan: Paying attention to bodily sensations,.noticeing areas of tension or release.

    • Mindful movement: Engaging in physical activities like walking, running, or swimming while maintaining a mindful attitude.

    Mindfulness in the Workplace and Beyond

    The benefits of mindfulness extend far beyond the individual, as its positive impact can be felt within families, communities, and organizations. By fostering greater self-awareness and empathy, mindfulness can:

    • Improve interpersonal relationships: Enhanced communication, active listening, and conflict resolution skills.

    • Boost team performance: Increased productivity, creativity, and collaboration.

    • Enhance leadership: More effective decision-making, emotional intelligence, and strategic thinking.

    Challenges and Limitations

    Despite its growing popularity, mindfulness is not without its challenges. Some common concerns include:

    • Time constraints: Many people struggle to find the time to commit to regular mindfulness practice.

    • Lack of understanding: Misconceptions about mindfulness, such as it being a requirement for long periods of silence or elaborate rituals.

    • Accessibility: Concerns about costs, availability, and cultural or geographical limitations.

    Conclusion

    The Mindfulness Revolution is a testament to humanity’s innate capacity for self-improvement and growth. By acknowledging the importance of mindfulness in today’s society, we can better address the anxieties and distractions that plague us. Whether through meditation, yoga, or simply paying attention to our breath, mindfulness offers a universal language, accessible to all. By embracing this ancient practice, we can cultivate greater self-awareness, increase compassion, and foster a more peaceful, connected world.

    Frequently Asked Questions

    Q: Is mindfulness a replacement for traditional therapy or medical treatment?
    A: No, mindfulness is not a replacement but can be a complementary tool for those undergoing therapy or medical treatment.

    Q: Is mindfulness only for spiritual or religious purposes?
    A: No, mindfulness is secular and applicable to individuals of all beliefs and backgrounds.

    Q: Do I need to be a "natural" or " htmlspecialchars" to practice mindfulness?
    A: No, anyone can practice mindfulness, regardless of physical ability, flexibility, or comfort level.

    Q: How often should I practice mindfulness?
    A: Start with short, regular sessions (5-10 minutes) and gradually increase as desired.

    By embracing the Mindfulness Revolution, we can empower ourselves to navigate the complexities of modern life with greater ease, resilience, and inner peace. Join the movement and experience the transformative power of mindfulness for yourself.

  • Measles Outbreak in Texas County With Low Vaccination Rate Multiplies, More Cases ‘Likely’

    Measles Outbreak in Texas County With Low Vaccination Rate Multiplies, More Cases ‘Likely’

    Measles is ripping through Gaines County, Texas—cases have more than tripled, and health officials warn the worst is yet to come. The highly contagious virus is spreading fast, with more infections “likely” in the days ahead.

    The Texas Department of State Health Services (DSHS) confirmed 48 cases as of this week, up from just 14 last Friday.

    “Thirteen of the patients have been hospitalized,” the agency stated in a press release. All of the cases involve individuals who are either unvaccinated or whose vaccination status is unknown.

    “The best way to prevent getting sick is to be immunized with two doses of a vaccine against measles,” DSHS advised. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) notes that the measles-mumps-rubella (MMR) vaccine is 97% effective at preventing infection.

    Health officials attribute the outbreak to low vaccination rates. Only 82% of kindergartners in Gaines County public schools are up to date on their shots, well below the 95% threshold required for herd immunity. The county also has an 18% exemption rate for vaccines due to religious or personal beliefs.

    “We’re trying to get out the message about how important vaccination is,” Zach Holbrooks, executive director of the South Plains Public Health District told CNN. He stressed those exposed or symptomatic should get tested at the mobile screening unit in Seminole, Texas.

    “Measles is a serious yet preventable disease,” added Dr. Jamie Felberg of the South Plains Public Health District. “Staying up to date on vaccinations is the most effective way to safeguard yourself, your loved ones, and the community.”

    “Additional cases are likely to occur in Gaines County and the surrounding communities,” DSHS warned.

    Originally published on Latin Times

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  • Dive into Fitness: Uncovering the Incredible Health Benefits of Swimming

    Dive into Fitness: Uncovering the Incredible Health Benefits of Swimming

    The water’s edge beckons, and the world of fitness beckons back, inviting us to dive in and experience the incredible health benefits of swimming. In this article, we’ll delve into the world of aquatics, exploring the many advantages of a swimming routine and why it’s an ideal addition to any fitness regimen.

    The Ultimate Full-Body Workout

    Swimming is an exceptional full-body workout, engaging multiple muscle groups simultaneously. The water’s buoyancy reduces the impact on joints, making it an ideal exercise for people with joint issues or those seeking a low-impact alternative to high-impact activities. As you swim, you engage your arms, legs, core, and back muscles, increasing strength, flexibility, and coordination.

    As you move through the water, you’re also improving cardiovascular health, boosting endurance, and enhancing overall physical fitness. Regular swimming can help reduce blood pressure, enhance lung capacity, and increase bone density, all while burning calories and shedding pounds.

    Cardiovascular Benefits

    Swimming is an excellent cardiovascular workout, providing a low-impact, high-intensity exercise that’s easy on the joints. Regular swimming can help:

    • Reduce blood pressure and risk of heart disease

    • Boost cardiovascular health and endurance

    • Improve lung function and oxygenation

    • Enhance overall physical fitness and endurance

    Strength Training

    Swimming is an excellent way to build strength, particularly for those who struggle with traditional weightlifting or resistance training. The water provides natural resistance, allowing you to engage and target specific muscle groups without putting excessive strain on joints.

    • Increase muscle mass and definition

    • Improve core strength and stability

    • Enhance flexibility and range of motion

    • Boost overall physical fitness and strength

    Stress Reduction and Mental Health

    Swimming is not only an excellent physical workout but also a powerful tool for stress reduction and mental wellness. The soothing, repetitive motion of the water can be meditative, calming the mind and promoting relaxation.

    • Reduce stress and anxiety levels

    • Enhance mood and overall mental well-being

    • Improve sleep quality and duration

    • Boost self-confidence and body positivity

    Injury Rehabilitation and Recovery

    Swimming is often used as a post-injury rehabilitation tool, helping individuals recover from injuries or surgeries. The water’s buoyancy and resistance provide a safe and controlled environment for gentle, low-impact movements, promoting healing and reducing pain.

    • Accelerate injury recovery

    • Reduce pain and discomfort

    • Improve mobility and range of motion

    • Enhance overall physical function and fitness

    Social Benefits

    Swimming is a social activity that offers a unique sense of community and camaraderie. Join a local swim team, take a fitness class, or participate in a water aerobics program to connect with like-minded individuals and share in the experience.

    • Meet new people and build relationships

    • Enhance social skills and connections

    • Stay motivated and accountable

    • Experience the benefits of group fitness and teamwork

    Getting Started

    Getting started with swimming is easier than you think. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced swimmer, here are some tips to help you get started:

    • Start with basic strokes, such as the freestyle or breaststroke

    • Practice in a pool or join a swim class

    • Invest in a swimsuit and goggles

    • Set achievable goals and track progress

    • Make it fun and interesting by trying new strokes or participating in aquatic activities

    Conclusion

    Swimming is an incredible fitness activity that offers a multitude of benefits for the body, mind, and spirit. From strength training and cardiovascular exercise to stress reduction and social benefits, there’s something for everyone in the world of swimming. Whether you’re a seasoned athlete or just starting out, the water’s edge is beckoning. Dive in, and discover the incredible health benefits of swimming for yourself.

    FAQs

    Q: What are the best swimming strokes for beginners?

    A: Start with basic strokes like freestyle, breaststroke, or backstroke. As you gain confidence and comfort, you can explore other strokes like butterfly, sidestroke, or dog paddle.

    Q: How often should I swim for optimal results?

    A: Aim for at least 2-3 times per week for 20-30 minutes per session. As you progress, you can increase frequency and duration based on your fitness goals and schedule.

    Q: Can I swim with injuries or health concerns?

    A: Consult with your doctor or medical professional before starting a swimming routine, especially if you have underlying health concerns or injuries. They can provide guidance on modifications and ensure a safe and effective workout.

    Q: What are the most common swimming mistakes?

    A: Start by focusing on proper form, breathing, and body positioning. Avoid swimming too fast or too slow, as this can lead to inefficient workouts and potential injuries. Practice swimming with a mask or goggles to improve visibility and breathing.

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  • Gut-loving goodness e-book | Dietitian Connection

    Gut-loving goodness e-book | Dietitian Connection

    What’s included:
    ✓     10+ simple gut-loving recipe ideas your clients will enjoy

    The patient resources are not, and are not intended to be, medical advice, which should be tailored to your individual circumstances.  The patient resources are for your information only, and we advise that you exercise your own judgment before deciding to use the information provided. Professional medical advice should be obtained before taking action.  Please see here for terms and conditions.

    Please note that all of our resources must be used in full and are unable to be personalised or customised.

    Download resource

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  • Measles Outbreak in Texas County With Low Vaccination Rate Multiplies, More Cases ‘Likely’

    Measles Outbreak in Texas County With Low Vaccination Rate Multiplies, More Cases ‘Likely’

    Measles is ripping through Gaines County, Texas—cases have more than tripled, and health officials warn the worst is yet to come. The highly contagious virus is spreading fast, with more infections “likely” in the days ahead.

    The Texas Department of State Health Services (DSHS) confirmed 48 cases as of this week, up from just 14 last Friday.

    “Thirteen of the patients have been hospitalized,” the agency stated in a press release. All of the cases involve individuals who are either unvaccinated or whose vaccination status is unknown.

    “The best way to prevent getting sick is to be immunized with two doses of a vaccine against measles,” DSHS advised. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) notes that the measles-mumps-rubella (MMR) vaccine is 97% effective at preventing infection.

    Health officials attribute the outbreak to low vaccination rates. Only 82% of kindergartners in Gaines County public schools are up to date on their shots, well below the 95% threshold required for herd immunity. The county also has an 18% exemption rate for vaccines due to religious or personal beliefs.

    “We’re trying to get out the message about how important vaccination is,” Zach Holbrooks, executive director of the South Plains Public Health District told CNN. He stressed those exposed or symptomatic should get tested at the mobile screening unit in Seminole, Texas.

    “Measles is a serious yet preventable disease,” added Dr. Jamie Felberg of the South Plains Public Health District. “Staying up to date on vaccinations is the most effective way to safeguard yourself, your loved ones, and the community.”

    “Additional cases are likely to occur in Gaines County and the surrounding communities,” DSHS warned.

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