Texas is currently experiencing a significant measles outbreak that has raised alarm bells among public health officials. The Texas Department of State Health Services has confirmed 709 cases of measles as of May 16, 2025, marking the largest outbreak of the disease in the state in over a decade. The outbreak has been particularly concentrated in the South Plains region, with numerous cases reported in Lubbock, Amarillo, and surrounding areas.
Measles, a highly contagious viral infection that can lead to serious complications such as pneumonia, encephalitis, and even death, has been largely controlled in the U.S. since the introduction of the MMR (measles, mumps, rubella) vaccine in the 1960s. However, a combination of declining vaccination rates, misinformation about vaccine safety, and growing vaccine hesitancy has led to a resurgence of the disease in certain parts of the country.
Public health experts are sounding the alarm over the increase in measles cases in Texas. Dr. Lisa Brown, a spokesperson for the Texas Department of State Health Services, urged residents to ensure that they and their children are up-to-date on their vaccinations. “Measles is preventable, but if you’re not vaccinated, you’re at risk,” Dr. Brown said. “We’ve seen firsthand how dangerous this disease can be, especially in unvaccinated populations. It’s critical that people take action to protect themselves and their communities.”
The outbreak has also raised concerns about vaccine hesitancy, which has been on the rise in Texas and across the U.S. in recent years. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), Texas has one of the highest rates of unvaccinated children in the country. Public health campaigns aimed at combating vaccine misinformation have become a priority for health officials, but progress has been slow. Experts worry that continued misinformation about the safety and effectiveness of vaccines could exacerbate the current measles outbreak and lead to further outbreaks of other preventable diseases.
In response to the outbreak, local health departments in the affected areas have launched vaccination clinics and are working to increase public awareness about the importance of vaccination. Schools and daycare centers have also been urged to review their vaccination policies to ensure that all children are protected. In addition, state officials have implemented stricter quarantine and isolation measures for individuals who have contracted the disease, to prevent further spread.
Measles is not just a local issue—it’s a national public health concern. With states like Texas experiencing a rise in cases, health officials are warning that outbreaks could spread to other regions of the country if vaccination rates do not improve. “We cannot afford to let this outbreak grow,” Dr. Brown added. “The key to ending this epidemic is widespread vaccination, and we need every eligible person to get vaccinated.”
As the situation continues to evolve, Texas health officials are calling on the public to take immediate action by checking their vaccination status and seeking medical attention if they develop symptoms of measles, which include a high fever, cough, runny nose, and a characteristic red, blotchy rash. If left untreated, measles can lead to severe complications, particularly in young children, pregnant women, and individuals with weakened immune systems.
For ongoing updates, visit the Texas Department of State Health Services News & Alerts page.
