Measles Outbreak in West Texas Nears 200 Cases
The measles outbreak in West Texas is nearing 200 cases, according to a Friday morning update from the state health department.
Health officials said 198 cases have been identified since late January. Twenty-three of those patients have been hospitalized, and one school-age, unvaccinated child has died.
Understanding Measles and its Spread
Measles is one of the most contagious viruses in the world and spreads mostly among unvaccinated people. Three months in, Texas has already reported more measles cases in 2025 than in any other full year since 1992.
Of the 198 cases, 80 were in people who were unvaccinated, and 113 were in people whose vaccination status was unknown, according to the state health department.Locations Affected by the Outbreak
The outbreak started in Gaines County, near the New Mexico border. At 137 cases, it is still home to a vast majority of patients. Terry County follows at 29.
Texas’ count doesn’t include 30 measles cases reported in New Mexico, which officials have said were likely connected to the West Texas outbreak.
Prevention and Vaccination
While there’s no evidence the outbreak has spread to North Texas, doctors say they’re preaching the same thing to every concerned parent: Make sure you and your children are vaccinated.
“The most robust way that we have to prevent measles is by the vaccination,” said Dr. Carla Garcia Carreno, the medical director for Infection Prevention and Control at Children’s Medical Center Plano. “It’s a very effective vaccine and it’s a very safe vaccine.”
The two-dose MMR vaccine is 97% effective at preventing the illness, which means vaccinated people are unlikely to catch the virus. Health experts recommend the first dose be administered to babies between 12 and 15 months old, with the second dose administered when the child is 4 to 6 years old.
Stay Informed and Get the Latest Updates
D-FW Public Health Alerts
Related: Texas has an ongoing measles outbreak. Here’s everything you need to know about the virus
Related: Measles found in 12 states as U.S. cases jump 35% in a week
Related: North Texas parents are worried about the measles outbreak. Here’s what doctors say
Conclusion
The measles outbreak in West Texas is a serious concern, with 198 cases reported so far. The majority of cases are in unvaccinated individuals, highlighting the importance of vaccination in preventing the spread of the disease. By staying informed and getting vaccinated, we can all play a role in preventing the spread of measles and keeping our communities safe.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: What is measles and how is it spread?
A: Measles is a highly contagious virus that spreads through the air when an infected person coughs or sneezes. It can also spread through contact with contaminated surfaces.
Q: How can I protect myself and my family from measles?
A: The best way to protect yourself and your family from measles is to get vaccinated. The two-dose MMR vaccine is 97% effective at preventing the illness.
Q: What are the symptoms of measles?
A: The symptoms of measles include fever, cough, runny nose, and a rash that spreads from the head and face to the rest of the body.
Q: Where can I get more information about the measles outbreak in West Texas?
A: You can get more information about the measles outbreak in West Texas from the state health department or from local health authorities.
