Texas Measles Outbreak Spreads Across 29 Counties
Texas’ measles outbreak has grown to 702 cases across 29 counties, according to a Tuesday update from the state public health department.
The Texas Department of State Health Services estimates that less than 1% of those cases — or fewer than 10 of the reported cases — are “actively infectious.”
Current Status of the Outbreak
Officials still have 10 counties designated as having “ongoing measles transmission.” The outbreak began in Gaines County, near the New Mexico border, in January.
There have been seven cases reported in the Dallas-Fort Worth area this year —including several reported over the weekend — but none have been tied to the ongoing outbreak.
Measles Cases in the Dallas-Fort Worth Area
One case each in Collin and Denton counties, plus two cases in Rockwall County, are included in the department’s list of “other 2025 measles cases.” That means they are not included in the outbreak numbers.
Health officials reported an additional three cases in the Dallas-Fort Worth area over the weekend: two in Tarrant County and one additional in Denton County. Those three cases have not yet appeared in the state public health department’s update. It‘s unclear if those three cases are connected to or separate from the ongoing outbreak.
Severity of the Outbreak
A total of 91 people in Texas have been hospitalized during the outbreak and two children have died. Both children were unvaccinated and did not have any known underlying conditions, according to the state public health department.
The outbreak has also led to measles cases in New Mexico and Oklahoma. As of Tuesday, New Mexico had reported 67 cases and Oklahoma had reported 17 cases.
The outbreak totals 786 reported cases across the three states.
What is Measles and How is it Spread?
Measles is a highly contagious virus that can spread rapidly among unvaccinated people. Before the measles vaccine became available, the United States had millions of cases and between 400 and 500 deaths each year.
Vaccination and Prevention
The two-dose measles-mumps-rubella vaccine is 97% effective at preventing measles and, due to high vaccination rates, the illness was declared eliminated in the United States in 2000.
There have still been outbreaks since then in communities with low vaccination rates. Experts have said the ongoing outbreak that began in West Texas, however, is a threat to the country’s elimination status.
Vaccination is the most effective way to contain a measles outbreak. The vaccine is recommended for nearly everyone, beginning at about 12 months of age, with the exception of people who are pregnant or immunocompromised.
Conclusion
The measles outbreak in Texas and surrounding states is a serious public health concern. With the number of cases continuing to rise, it is essential that individuals take steps to protect themselves and their loved ones by getting vaccinated.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is measles and how is it spread?
A: Measles is a highly contagious virus that can spread rapidly among unvaccinated people. It is spread through the air when an infected person coughs or sneezes, or by touching a surface that has the virus on it.
Q: How can I protect myself from measles?
A: The best way to protect yourself from measles is to get vaccinated. The two-dose measles-mumps-rubella vaccine is 97% effective at preventing measles.
Q: What are the symptoms of measles?
A: The symptoms of measles include fever, cough, runny nose, and a rash. In severe cases, measles can lead to hospitalization and even death.
Q: How many cases of measles have been reported in Texas?
A: As of Tuesday, there have been 702 cases of measles reported in Texas across 29 counties.
Q: Are there any cases of measles in the Dallas-Fort Worth area?
A: Yes, there have been seven cases reported in the Dallas-Fort Worth area this year, but none have been tied to the ongoing outbreak.
