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Texas Measles Outbreak Surpasses 500 Cases, Spreads to Neighboring States

The outbreak, centered in West Texas, has resulted in two child deaths, 57 hospitalizations, and confirmed cases in New Mexico and Oklahoma.

Signs inform people of measles prevention and testing at the Gaines County Court House in Seminole, Texas, U.S. April 6, 2025. Justin Rex for The Texas Tribune via REUTERS NO RESALES. NO ARCHIVES. MANDATORY CREDIT. THIS IMAGE HAS BEEN SUPPLIED BY A THIRD PARTY
A sign reading "measles testing" is seen as an outbreak in Gaines County, Texas, has raised concerns over its spread to other parts of the state, in Seminole, Texas, U.S., February 25, 2025. REUTERS/Sebastian Rocandio/File Photo

Overview

  • Texas has reported 505 measles cases across 22 counties since late January, with the majority of infections in unvaccinated school-aged children.
  • The outbreak has spread to New Mexico, Oklahoma, and Mexico, raising concerns about further transmission in urban areas and other states.
  • Public health officials have adjusted vaccination protocols, recommending early MMR doses for infants and expedited second doses for children in affected areas.
  • Federal and local responses include CDC deployments, vaccination clinics, and public health messaging to counter vaccine hesitancy.
  • Experts warn that the outbreak, fueled by low vaccination rates, could threaten the U.S.'s measles elimination status if it continues beyond 12 months.