Texas is currently facing its most significant measles outbreak in nearly three decades, and the cases are quickly increasing. As of today, February 21, 2025, there are now 90 confirmed cases, when just three days ago, there were a total of 58 reported. The outbreak began in Gaines County in late January and has continued spreading to neighboring counties and other areas. The majority of those affected are unvaccinated individuals, with 13 hospitalizations reported. Health officials attribute the outbreak to low vaccination rates in the affected regions.
What Are Measles?
Measles is a highly contagious viral disease characterized by symptoms such as high fever, cough, runny nose, red eyes, and a distinctive rash that appears after initial symptoms. The virus can remain airborne for up to two hours after an infected person leaves an area, making it particularly challenging to contain. In Gaines County, nearly 20% of incoming kindergarten students for the 2023-2024 school year had not received the measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR) vaccine. Measles impacts your respiratory tract and then spreads throughout your body.
Opposition Impacting Communities
There are now six other states that have reported cases of measles as of today. Of the following list, three* states now meet the official “outbreak” criteria, defined by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention as three or more related cases of illness, as of Friday. The list of the current states with reported cases Those states currently include:
- Alaska
- Georgia*
- New Jersey*
- New Mexico*
- New York
- Rhode Island
As this outbreak continues to spread and impact communities, health officials continue to urge the public to get vaccinated. The Seminole Clinic offers people vaccines, and it even lists its location on the Texas Department of State Health Services‘ website. The DSHS continues to collaborate with local health authorities to investigate and contain the spread of the disease. They provide vaccines in clinics and urgent care centers and advise residents to receive two doses of the MMR vaccine, which is highly effective in preventing measles. You can also reach out to your primary doctor about scheduling a vaccine.
Preventing the Spread
As the spread continues, it is important to continue thinking of not only yourself but others as well. The DSHS continues to emphasize the importance of vaccination to prevent further spread of the disease and protect public health. Given the highly contagious nature of measles, additional cases are expected to continue rising. Many medical officials continue to urge the public to look into their communities and find local health locations that will assist with vaccination.
