A measles outbreak centered in West Texas has grown to become the country’s largest in six years, with over 250 cases reported across Texas, New Mexico, and Oklahoma. Experts warn that this number is likely much higher due to unreported cases. According to Katherine Wells, director of public health in Lubbock, Texas, some sick children have been taken to hospital without being tested for measles.
The lack of cooperation from some individuals in affected areas contributes to the underreporting. Public health officials estimate that they are only capturing a fraction of actual cases due to these factors and mathematical limitations. The situation is expected to be challenging, with experts predicting it will take time to achieve full herd immunity in the area.
Source: https://www.statnews.com/2025/03/12/measles-outbreak-larger-than-reported-public-health-experts-say