The number of measles cases in Texas has increased to 663, with 17 new reported cases on Tuesday. The state’s public health department estimates that fewer than 10 of these cases are “actively infectious.” In the past few months, 87 people have been hospitalized and two children have died due to complications from measles.
The outbreak, which began in West Texas, has spread to Oklahoma, Mexico, and New Mexico. In Oklahoma, 12 new cases were reported as of Tuesday, while New Mexico reported 66 cases. The total number of national measles cases now stands at 741.
Measles is a highly contagious virus that spreads mainly among unvaccinated people. The two-dose measles-mumps-rubella vaccine is effective in preventing illness and is recommended for nearly everyone starting at 12 months of age, except those who are immunocompromised or pregnant.
Experts warn that the ongoing outbreak may threaten the country’s elimination status, which was achieved in 2000 due to high vaccination rates. With more than 660 cases reported in Texas alone, the situation remains concerning and highlights the importance of vaccination to prevent the spread of measles.
Source: https://www.dallasnews.com/news/2025/04/29/texas-measles-outbreak-now-over-660-cases-but-fewer-than-10-actively-infectious