Measles Outbreak Rages in Texas, Spurring Concerns in Neighboring States
Texas Outbreak
The Texas Department of State Health Services (DSHS) issued an alarming warning on Tuesday, revealing that 24 cases of measles had surfaced in Gaines County within a two-week period. The outbreak has primarily affected unvaccinated individuals, with 22 out of the 24 cases occurring in children. Nine patients have required hospitalization.
The highly contagious nature of measles raises concerns about further spread within Gaines County and neighboring communities, as stated by the DSHS.
Expansion into Surrounding Areas
The Brownfield Independent School District confirmed on Tuesday that cases of measles had also been identified in Terry County, signaling that the outbreak is extending its reach. Furthermore, Lynn County reported one confirmed case last week.
The New Mexico Department of Health reported an unvaccinated teenager with measles in Lea County, which borders Gaines County. Chief Medical Officer Dr. Miranda Durham emphasized the critical need for individuals to get up-to-date on their vaccinations, particularly those who are unvaccinated or partially immunized.
Reemergence of Measles
Measles had previously been declared eliminated in the United States in 2000 by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). However, declining vaccination rates have led to a resurgence of the disease.
In 2024, the CDC reported a staggering 285 measles cases across 33 states. Alarmingly, 89% of these cases involved unvaccinated individuals or those with an unknown vaccination status. As of February 6, 2025, the CDC had reported 14 cases of measles.
Falling Vaccination Rates
The CDC’s 2024 report revealed that vaccination coverage for children entering kindergarten had dropped below 93%. The uptake of the measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR) vaccine had reached 92.7%.
Symptoms and Timeline
Measles is a highly contagious disease with an incubation period of 7 to 14 days after exposure to the virus. Initial symptoms include:
- Fever
- Cough
- Runny nose
- Red, watery eyes
- Koplik spots (small white bumps in the mouth)
A rash typically develops 3 to 5 days after the onset of symptoms, starting at the hairline and spreading downwards.
Prevention and Control
The most effective way to prevent the spread of measles is through vaccination. Individuals who are not fully vaccinated are strongly encouraged to get the MMR vaccine.
Other preventive measures include:
- Avoiding contact with infected individuals
- Maintaining proper hand hygiene
- Covering coughs and sneezes
