Measles Outbreak in Texas Claims Child’s Life, Cases Rise to 146

Rise in Cases Linked to Undervaccinated Community

The number of people affected by a measles outbreak in Texas has risen to 146, the highest in nearly 30 years, according to the Texas Department of State Health Services. The outbreak, which has been linked to an undervaccinated community in West Texas, has already claimed the life of a child.

Child’s Death Marks First U.S. Death from Measles since 2015

The child who died from measles is the first U.S. death from the disease since 2015, according to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. The child was treated at Covenant Children’s Hospital in Lubbock, but did not live in Lubbock County.

Outbreak Linked to Undervaccinated Community

The virus has largely spread through rural, oil-rich West Texas, with cases concentrated in a "close-knit, undervaccinated" Mennonite community. Gaines County, where most cases have been reported, has a strong homeschooling and private school community, and is home to one of the highest rates of school-aged children in Texas who have opted out of at least one required vaccine, with nearly 14% skipping a required dose last school year.

Vaccination Rates Decline Nationwide

Vaccination rates have declined nationwide since the COVID-19 pandemic, and most states are below the 95% vaccination threshold for kindergartners, the level needed to protect communities against measles outbreaks. The MMR vaccine is safe and highly effective at preventing infection and severe cases.

Measles: A Preventable Disease

Measles is a highly contagious respiratory disease that can lead to dangerous complications such as pneumonia, blindness, brain swelling, and death. The first shot is recommended for children ages 12 to 15 months, and the second for ages 4 to 6 years. Most kids will recover from measles, but infection can lead to severe health issues.

Conclusion

The recent measles outbreak in Texas is a sobering reminder of the importance of vaccination. As the number of cases continues to rise, it is crucial that we work to increase vaccination rates and protect our communities against this preventable disease.

Frequently Asked Questions

• What is measles?
  Measles is a highly contagious respiratory disease caused by the measles virus.
• What are the symptoms of measles?
  Symptoms of measles include fever, cough, runny nose, and a rash. In severe cases, it can lead to pneumonia, blindness, brain swelling, and death.
• How is measles transmitted?
  Measles is highly contagious and can be spread through the air, just like a cold. It can also spread through contact with an infected person’s mucus or saliva.
• How can I protect myself from getting measles?
  The best way to protect yourself from getting measles is to get vaccinated with the MMR vaccine. The first dose is recommended at 12-15 months old, and the second dose at 4-6 years old.