Texas Sees Nearly 600 Confirmed Cases in Measles Outbreak

The state of Texas is currently experiencing a significant measles outbreak, with the number of confirmed cases nearing 600. As of recent reports, 36 new cases have been identified, bringing the total confirmed cases since late January to 597. Health officials estimate that fewer than 30 of these cases, about 4%, are actively infectious at this time.

The outbreak is particularly concentrated in ten counties, with Gaines County reporting the majority of cases—371 in total—and Lamar County reporting 11 cases. Gaines County, situated near the New Mexico border, was the initial epicenter of the outbreak, which has since extended across neighboring states including New Mexico and Oklahoma. In New Mexico, 63 cases have been confirmed, while Oklahoma has reported 12 cases.

The outbreak has resulted in 62 hospitalizations and tragically, two fatalities among unvaccinated children who had no underlying health conditions. The affected demographics predominantly include unvaccinated individuals, highlighting the importance of immunization.

Texas’s public health department highlights ongoing transmission in ten counties: Cochran, Dallam, Dawson, Gaines, Garza, Lynn, Lamar, Lubbock, Terry, and Yoakum. There is concern that the outbreak may affect broader areas, as in North Texas where a case has been identified in Rockwall County in an adult traveler returning from West Texas.

This outbreak is part of a broader situation in the United States, where the CDC reports approximately 800 cases nationwide as of April 18. Notably, more than 30 cases have surfaced in Kansas, possibly linked to the Texas situation.

Measles, a highly contagious virus, spreads mainly among unvaccinated populations. The highly effective MMR vaccine, which provides 97% protection after two doses, remains the best defense. Historically, measles was declared eliminated in the U.S. in 2000 due to widespread vaccination efforts. However, outbreaks continue in communities with low vaccination coverage, risking the country’s elimination status.

Public health experts emphasize vaccination, starting at around 12 months of age, as critical in preventing outbreaks. Pregnant women and immunocompromised individuals are advised against vaccination. The ongoing Texas outbreak underscores the importance of maintaining high immunization rates to prevent further spread of measles and sustain public health efforts.

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