Texas Experience a Rising Measles Outbreak with Six New Cases and No Additional Counties Affected

The ongoing measles outbreak in Texas has seen an increase of six new cases, bringing the total to 728 confirmed instances across the state. Despite the rise in cases, health officials reported that no additional counties have been impacted recently. Currently, less than 1% of these cases, or fewer than 10 individuals, are considered actively infectious, as measles transmission occurs four days before and after the appearance of a rash. Since the outbreak's inception in Gaines County in January, 94 people have required hospitalization due to measles, and sadly, two school-aged children have died from the disease. Both children had not been vaccinated and had no underlying health issues.

Gaines County remains the hardest-hit area, accounting for 56% of all cases with 408 confirmed cases. Other counties affected include Cochran, Dawson, Lamar, Lubbock, Terry, and Yoakum. In addition to these, 22 cases unrelated to the current outbreak have been reported in Texas, including two in Denton County, two in Tarrant County, and one in Rockwall County.

Measles is recognized for its high contagiousness and rapid spread, especially among unvaccinated populations. Out of the total cases, 691 individuals are believed to be unvaccinated or have unknown vaccination statuses. The two-dose MMR vaccine has proven to be 97% effective in preventing measles. The recommended vaccination schedule involves administering the first dose to infants aged 12 to 15 months and the second dose when they are between 4 and 6 years old. Pregnant women and immunocompromised individuals are advised against receiving the vaccine.

Health authorities emphasize the importance of vaccination to control and prevent further spread of this highly contagious virus. Continued surveillance and vaccination efforts are crucial in managing the outbreak.

_Source: https://medicalxpress.com/news/2025-05-texas-measles-outbreak-cases-counties.html