In the last week of January, as Lubbock Health Department director Katherine Wells reviewed her busy schedule, she came across alarming news: the first measles case in her region for twenty years had been confirmed in Gaines County. This case was just the beginning of an outbreak that would escalate to over 400 cases statewide, bringing with it echoes of the COVID-19 pandemic and the public health crises that had preceded it.

As of March 2025, Texas has fallen victim to a significant surge in measles cases, with Wells observing unsettling similarities to the early days of the COVID-19 pandemic. These include increased public skepticism and hostility towards health officials, with accusations directed at her that she is somehow responsible for the outbreak to bolster the health department’s relevance.

Public health officials, including Wells, have faced severe challenges in rebuilding trust as misinformation about health initiatives proliferates. A survey by the Kaiser Family Foundation revealed that many adults remain uncertain about the veracity of health information they’ve encountered, compounding the problem of public skepticism.

Dr. Georges Benjamin, executive director of the American Public Health Association, emphasized that public trust is crucial, particularly in times of crisis. “When something really bad happens, like with COVID, the fundamental trust wasn’t there,” he remarked.

Katherine Wells has been at the helm of Lubbock’s public health efforts for ten years, persistently advocating for community health long before the current measles outbreak. As Lubbock serves as a critical healthcare hub for surrounding rural areas, Wells has worked tirelessly alongside her staff to combat rising rates of sexually transmitted infections and teen pregnancies, amidst various public health challenges.

The wave of measles cases, particularly concentrated in rural Gaines County, has placed an additional burden on Lubbock’s healthcare infrastructure. According to Wells, the incidents have highlighted a need for greater public education regarding vaccinations and the importance of public health measures in community health.

The outbreak has prompted calls for action, including drive-up vaccination clinics. However, overcoming the growing mistrust surrounding vaccines remains a tall order, especially with misleading information circulating about the role of vitamin A in measles treatment.

Wells has prioritized community engagement to restore trust and effectively combat the outbreak. This involves not only addressing misinformation but also creating inclusive health initiatives. Following insights from community leaders, the health department has made strides to improve vaccine accessibility, especially in historically underserved neighborhoods.

In partnership with local media, such as Latino Lubbock Magazine, Wells has disseminated information about measles in multiple languages, aiming to reach all community members effectively.

As the measles outbreak evolves, Wells anticipates that it could extend throughout the year. Vaccination remains the most effective defense against the disease; however, she acknowledges that ultimately, the decision lies with individuals and families.

Wells underlines the pressing need to not only focus on current outbreaks but also to remain vigilant against potential resurgence of other vaccine-preventable diseases. She notes, “You see measles first because it’s the most infectious. It doesn’t mean we’re not going to see outbreaks of other childhood viruses.”

With challenges mounting and the implications of a measles resurgence looming, Wells continues to advocate for a stronger public health system. As she balances her demanding role with personal commitments, her recent completion of a doctorate on public health system improvements signals an ongoing commitment to fortifying public health education and infrastructure in Texas.