Dallas County Health and Human Services has canceled 50 scheduled immunization events due to federal funding cuts affecting local and state public health programs. The department laid off 11 staff and 10 part-time workers responsible for hosting the events.
The loss of $70 million in grants, allocated by the Centers for Disease Control, will impact laboratory equipment, testing, staff, and outreach services. This cut is part of a broader $11 billion reduction in COVID-19 era aid programs.
Measles outbreaks continue to affect West Texas, with 422 cases confirmed in the state as of Tuesday. Local officials have expressed concerns that canceling immunization events will disproportionately impact vulnerable residents who lack mobility or access to transportation.
The county health department will maintain services at its brick and mortar clinics but warns that these cuts may affect communities directly. Officials plan to collaborate with churches and community partners to identify residents in need of assistance accessing clinics.
Source: https://www.dallasnews.com/news/public-health/2025/04/01/measles-dallas-county-public-health-vaccines