Overview of the Outbreak

As of April 22, Texas has reported a total of 624 measles cases across 26 counties, marking one of the most significant outbreaks in recent history. Among these cases, 64 individuals have been hospitalized, and tragically, two school-aged children have died since the outbreak’s start in January.

Gaines County is the epicenter of this outbreak, accounting for over half of the reported cases. The area first reported a measles case on January 29, and the number of infections continues to rise, with the latest update showing an additional 27 cases reported since the previous Friday. The most recent county added to the outbreak is Bailey, which has reported two cases.

State Response and Public Health Campaigns

The Texas Department of State Health Services (DSHS) is actively monitoring the situation and provides updates on reported infections every Tuesday and Friday. To combat the outbreak, the state has launched a public awareness initiative and set up testing and vaccination clinics, incurring costs of approximately $4.5 million by mid-April.

Experts emphasize that the measles-mumps-rubella (MMR) vaccine is the most effective preventive measure against measles, with alarming research indicating that 90% of unvaccinated individuals are likely to contract the virus if exposed. The safety and mild side effects of the MMR vaccine have been well-documented.

Measles: Understanding the Virus

Measles is a highly contagious viral infection that spreads through respiratory droplets from coughing, sneezing, and even breathing. An infected individual can begin transmitting the virus up to four days before exhibiting any symptoms, including the hallmark rash. The virus can persist in the air for up to two hours, rendering places such as hospitals and schools particularly vulnerable.

Symptoms range from high fever and cold-like symptoms to a widespread rash. While most individuals recover with home care, severe complications can arise, especially in children, pregnant women, and immunocompromised individuals.

“They come into the emergency room and they are literally ragdolls hanging over their parents’ shoulders, limp, dehydrated, miserable,” recalled Patsy Stinchfield, a seasoned pediatric medicine expert. “They’re barely even crying, because they’re so dehydrated they don’t have tears.”

Prevention Strategies

The MMR vaccine, known for its high efficacy rate over 97%, is recommended for children, typically given in two doses: the first at 12 months and a second around 5 years of age. In outbreak situations, earlier vaccination may be warranted.

If individuals are unsure of their vaccination status, they are encouraged to consult their health provider. According to the CDC, it is safe to receive another MMR vaccine even if an individual may already have immunity.

In the case of recent exposure to measles, vaccination within 72 hours can significantly reduce symptoms. For those unable to receive the vaccine, such as infants and immunocompromised individuals, immunoglobulin treatment may help mitigate symptoms.

Continuing Cases and Historical Context

This current outbreak is reminiscent of the 1992 incident in Texas, which saw 990 reported cases, representing the last outbreak of this scale prior to the current situation. Although cases have been relatively rare since the advent of the vaccine, recent trends show a concerning decrease in vaccination rates, particularly among specific communities, contributing to the resurgence of such diseases.

In 2019, vaccination rates for kindergartners in Texas were nearly 97%, compared to 94% in 2024, indicating a worrying downward trend that could lead to further outbreaks if not addressed.