Texas Reports Nearly 650 Cases of Measles Amidst Ongoing Outbreak

Texas continues to grapple with a significant measles outbreak, with the total confirmed cases reaching 646 as of April 25, 2025. In the latest update, 22 new cases have been added to the tally, highlighting the persistent spread of this highly contagious disease. Despite the overall high number of cases, fewer than 10 individuals, approximately 1% of the total, are estimated to be actively infectious at any given time.

The Texas Department of State Health Services has identified 10 counties as having ongoing measles transmission. These counties include Cochran, Dallam, Dawson, Gaines, Garza, Lynn, Lamar, Lubbock, Terry, and Yoakum. The outbreak has led to 64 hospitalizations so far, and tragically, two unvaccinated children have succumbed to the illness.

The outbreak's impact extends beyond Texas, with neighboring states experiencing cases as well. New Mexico reports 66 cases, and Oklahoma has documented 13 cases, bringing the total in the region to 725 cases. Additionally, there is a recent case in Collin County, part of the Dallas-Fort Worth area, which is currently unlinked to the West Texas outbreak.

Measles is well known for its high transmissibility and can spread rapidly among unvaccinated populations. The MMR vaccine, which requires two doses, is over 97% effective in preventing the disease. Although measles was declared eliminated in the U.S. in 2000, localized outbreaks have still occurred, particularly in communities with low vaccination rates.

Health experts warn that the ongoing outbreak poses a threat to the country's measles elimination status. The CDC recommends vaccination for nearly all children starting at 12 months old, with exceptions for immunocompromised individuals and pregnant women.

This persistent outbreak underscores the importance of maintaining high vaccination coverage to prevent the spread of measles and protect vulnerable populations.

Source: https://medicalxpress.com/news/2025-04-texas-measles-outbreak-nears-cases-1.html