A measles outbreak in western Texas has reached 90 cases, the largest in the state in over three decades. The majority of cases involve unvaccinated individuals or those with unknown vaccination status. Hospitals have treated 16 patients so far, including five who are vaccinated. Children aged 5-17 account for most cases, with 51 reported.
The outbreak primarily affects Gaines County, where more than half of the cases (57) have been confirmed. State data shows a significant increase in vaccine exemptions in the county between 2013 and 2023. Neighboring New Mexico has also seen nine measles cases in Lea County.
Health officials stress the importance of vaccination, citing that one infected person can spread the disease to up to nine out of 10 susceptible close contacts. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends two vaccine doses for people aged 12-15 months and 4-6 years old.
Source: https://abcnews.go.com/Health/texas-measles-outbreak-grows-90-cases-unvaccinated-people/story?id=119041244