Measles Outbreak Expands Across Texas and Neighboring States Nearing 800 Cases

A measles outbreak that originated in Gaines County, Texas, in January has now grown significantly, with official reports indicating a total of 709 cases in Texas alone as of May 9, 2025. The outbreak has extended beyond Texas borders, impacting neighboring states with additional cases in New Mexico and Oklahoma, bringing the total number of confirmed cases across the three states to nearly 800.

Despite the rising numbers, the Dallas-Fort Worth area has only reported seven measles cases this year, none of which have been linked to the larger outbreak. Health officials in North Texas have categorized six of these cases as unrelated to the West Texas outbreak, including two recent cases in Tarrant County. While genotyping results for these cases are pending, local health authorities have yet to identify any additional cases or establish connection to the ongoing outbreak.

Tarrant County Public Health Director Dr. Brian Byrd highlighted that the department has not found further positive cases besides the initial two, and emphasized the importance of maintaining vigilance. Similarly, in Denton County, Public Health Director Matt Richardson confirmed no new cases beyond the two previously reported. The state-wide data shows that there have been 16 measles cases in Texas this year that are not associated with the main outbreak.

This surge in measles cases underscores ongoing concerns about vaccination coverage and disease prevention. Public health officials continue to monitor the situation closely, urging residents to ensure their immunizations are up to date to prevent further spread of this highly contagious disease.