# Measles Outbreak in Texas Increases to 90 Cases, Heightening Public Health Alarm
A measles outbreak that originated in one of Texas’ least immunized counties has escalated to **90 confirmed cases** spanning seven counties, with potential transmission into neighboring **New Mexico**. Health authorities are becoming more apprehensive about the swift spread of the highly infectious virus, especially among **unvaccinated children**.
## **Update on the Outbreak Situation**
As reported by the **Texas Department of State Health Services**, the outbreak has predominantly impacted children, with **16 individuals hospitalized** due to severe conditions. Most cases are concentrated in **Gaines County, Texas**, which has a **kindergarten vaccination rate of merely 82%**—significantly below the recommended level for herd immunity.
Alongside Texas, **New Mexico has documented nine cases**, all in **Lea County**, which borders Gaines County. While officials have not established a direct connection between the Texas and New Mexico cases, the close geographical relationship indicates **potential community transmission**.
### **Case Distribution by County**
– **Gaines County, TX** – 57 cases
– **Terry County, TX** – 20 cases
– **Dawson County, TX** – 6 cases
– **Yoakum County, TX** – 4 cases
– **Ector, Lubbock, and Lynn Counties, TX** – 1 case each
– **Lea County, NM** – 9 cases
## **Who Is Most Affected?**
The outbreak has hit **children and unvaccinated individuals** particularly hard:
– **26 cases** in infants and toddlers (ages 0-4)
– **51 cases** in children and adolescents (ages 5-17)
– **Only five cases** in vaccinated individuals
– **16 hospitalizations** (18% of cases)
In **New Mexico**, the dynamics differ slightly, with **five of the nine cases involving adults**. However, there have been no reported hospitalizations in that state so far.
## **Why Is This Outbreak a Significant Concern?**
Measles ranks among the most **communicable viruses** identified. **90% of unvaccinated persons exposed to the virus will contract it**. The illness presents with **high fever, cough, runny nose, and a characteristic rash**, but can also result in **serious complications**, including:
– **Pneumonia** (5% of cases)
– **Hospitalization** (20% of U.S. cases)
– **Death** (up to 3 in 1,000 cases)
– **Subacute Sclerosing Panencephalitis (SSPE)** – a **fatal neurologic disorder** that may emerge years after infection
– **Immune Amnesia** – measles can **diminish immune memory**, increasing susceptibility to other infections
## **What Is Contributing to the Outbreak?**
The main driver of this outbreak is **low vaccination rates**. The **Measles, Mumps, and Rubella (MMR) vaccine** is highly effective, offering **97% protection** with two doses. Yet, vaccine hesitance and misinformation have caused a drop in immunization rates within specific communities, heightening the risk of outbreaks.
## **What Actions Can Be Taken to Halt the Spread?**
Health officials are advocating for **immediate vaccination** for individuals who are unvaccinated or under-vaccinated. The **CDC** and **state health authorities** recommend:
– **Children receive their first MMR dose at 12-15 months** and a second dose at **4-6 years**
– **Unvaccinated adults receive at least one dose**
– **Individuals exposed to measles should be vaccinated within 72 hours** to mitigate severity
Moreover, **quarantine protocols** and **public health notifications** are being implemented to manage the outbreak.
## **Final Thoughts**
The Texas measles outbreak underscores the **vital significance of vaccination** in preventing the spread of highly contagious illnesses. As cases continue to escalate, public health officials emphasize the necessity for **enhanced immunization initiatives** to safeguard vulnerable communities and avert future outbreaks.
For more details, please visit the **Texas Department of State Health Services** or the **CDC’s measles resource page**.
