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2mo ago

Texas Faces Largest Measles Outbreak in Decades, With 90 Confirmed Cases

Low vaccination rates in certain communities have fueled the outbreak, which has primarily affected children and led to 16 hospitalizations.

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A vehicle drives past a sign outside of Seminole Hospital District offering measles testing Friday, Feb. 21, 2025, in Seminole, Texas.
Measles, which can cause a rash like shown above, is on the rise in Texas.

Overview

  • The Texas measles outbreak, the state's largest in nearly 30 years, has reached 90 confirmed cases across multiple counties, with Gaines County reporting 57 cases.
  • The majority of cases involve children aged 5-17, and 16 patients have been hospitalized; most were unvaccinated or had unknown vaccination status.
  • Health officials link the outbreak to undervaccinated communities, including a close-knit Mennonite group and families attending private religious schools or homeschooling.
  • Neighboring Lea County, New Mexico, has reported nine measles cases, but officials have found no confirmed connection to the Texas outbreak.
  • Efforts to contain the spread include vaccination clinics, public education campaigns, and updated guidance urging accelerated vaccinations for affected areas.