A measles outbreak in Texas has infected nearly 200 people as of Friday, with 23 hospitalizations reported. The majority of cases (137) are located in Gaines County, a rural area west of Lubbock. The outbreak is affecting primarily children and young adults, with 89 cases among those aged five to 17.
The Texas Department of State Health Services reported that just five of the infected individuals are vaccinated, while the remaining sick patients are unvaccinated (80) or have unknown vaccination status (113). Measles is highly contagious and can spread from one person to nine out of 10 people close to them.
The outbreak began in late January with two cases and has become the state’s largest measles outbreak in 30 years. Health experts warn that additional cases are likely to occur due to the virus’s highly contagious nature.
While there have been reports of measles outbreaks in other states, including California, Alaska, Georgia, Kentucky, Florida, New Jersey, New York, and Rhode Island, Texas has reported nearly all of its cases so far. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) notes that the measles vaccine is highly effective and safe, with a 97% effectiveness rate after two doses.
The outbreak serves as a reminder of the importance of public health measures and vaccination. According to Dr. William Schaffner, a professor of infectious diseases at Vanderbilt University Medical Center, adults who are unsure of their vaccination status should consider getting vaccinated.
Source: https://www.forbes.com/sites/antoniopequenoiv/2025/03/07/measles-outbreak-cases-in-texas-near-200-after-deceased-man-in-new-mexico-tested-positive