Texas Faces Largest Measles Outbreak in 30 Years

HOUSTON, Texas — Texas is grappling with its largest measles outbreak in three decades, as nearly 280 cases have been reported, according to the Texas Department of State Health Services. As of March 18, the outbreak has spread to 15 states, surpassing 300 confirmed cases nationwide, and exceeding the total number of cases recorded in all of 2024.

The surge in cases began in January, with health officials declaring 279 confirmed cases in Texas by Tuesday. Of those infected, 36 required hospitalization, and tragically, a child has died from the illness. Only two of the cases involve vaccinated individuals, highlighting the risks faced by unvaccinated and uncertain vaccination statuses, which account for the remaining 277 cases.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reported that 301 total cases have been identified so far in 2025, primarily affecting unvaccinated populations. This includes several outbreaks with Texas holding the highest case count, followed by New Mexico, which has seen 38 cases.

Notably, the majority of cases in Texas are found in Gaines County, with 191 confirmed cases, a rural area approximately an hour-and-a-half from Lubbock. Other counties affected include Terry, Dawson, and Yoakum, among others. Health officials are particularly concerned about the rising numbers in neighboring states, including a recent outbreak in Kansas that saw its first measles case since 2018.

Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. described the outbreak as serious, emphasizing the importance of vaccination for community immunity. Despite his acknowledgment, Kennedy’s comments on vitamin A as a treatment option have raised alarms among health experts. Advocacy groups have expressed concerns about the potential risks of such recommendations, noting that focusing on unproven treatments could endanger public health.

Symptoms of measles typically manifest 10 to 14 days after exposure, presenting with fever, rash, and cough, along with potential complications, such as pneumonitis or encephalitis, that could be severe in unvaccinated individuals. The CDC has reminded citizens of the importance of the measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR) vaccine, which has proven highly effective, with an efficacy rate of about 97% with two doses.

Experts emphasize the need for vaccination, especially as the number of unvaccinated children and adults increases. According to Texas health officials, 5.64% of kindergarten students were unvaccinated this past school year, a concerning statistic that reflects declining vaccination rates.

Furthermore, the CDC has advised healthcare professionals to prioritize informing parents about the safety and efficacy of vaccines. Individuals are also urged to obtain their MMR vaccinations and monitor their health for symptoms after traveling to or residing in affected areas. Health organizations explain that measles can remain airborne for up to two hours, making vaccination a crucial defense against outbreaks.

The ongoing measles crisis serves as a reminder of the disease’s highly contagious nature and the need for an informed community to combat vaccine misinformation. Experts are united in urging the public to take preventive measures, including vaccination, to protect not only themselves but also the most vulnerable populations.