Texas Measles Outbreak Surges to 481 Cases Amid Vaccination Concerns

ABILENE, Texas — The measles outbreak in western Texas has escalated, with 481 confirmed cases reported by the Texas Department of State Health Services (DSHS) as of April 4, 2025. This includes 59 new infections identified in just the past three days.

Nearly all cases involve unvaccinated individuals or those with unknown vaccination status. Specifically, only ten cases have been linked to individuals who received one or two doses of the measles, mumps, rubella (MMR) vaccine.

“We are continuing to see a rise, indicating that the outbreak has not yet been contained,” said Dr. Sapna Singh, chief medical officer for Texas Children’s Pediatrics in Houston. She emphasized the importance of understanding the potential for even more undiagnosed cases.

According to the DSHS, at least 56 people have been hospitalized as a result of the outbreak, with a significant number of cases among children and teenagers. Data indicates that those ages 5 to 17 account for 180 cases, while younger children aged 4 and under represent 157 cases.

Most notably, Gaines County, which borders New Mexico, has been the center of the outbreak, reporting 315 confirmed cases, amounting to 65.5% of the total cases in Texas. “This is a deeply concerning situation, especially with so many cases concentrated in one area,” Dr. Singh added.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has noted that the outbreak is not isolated, with cases now reported in at least 21 states, including California, Florida, and New York. The CDC highlights that about 97% of nationally confirmed cases involve individuals who are unvaccinated or whose vaccination status is unknown.

Of the recent cases nationwide, only 1% have been linked to individuals receiving one dose of the MMR vaccine, and 2% to those with two doses. “Our data signals a clear trend that shows how effective vaccination is in containing the virus,” Dr. Singh said.

Despite the effectiveness of the vaccine, vaccination rates have been declining both domestically and internationally. “This is a troubling trend, further complicated by cases originating from international travel,” she noted.

Historically, the U.S. declared measles eliminated in 2000, thanks to robust vaccination efforts. However, the recent surge in cases, with 285 confirmed cases in Texas throughout 2024 and over 481 cases already reported in 2025, has raised alarms among public health officials.

Dr. Singh urges families to consult their pediatricians regarding vaccinations. “Education on the importance of vaccinations is key in addressing this outbreak and preventing future ones,” she stated. “Our greatest defense against the infection is vaccination.”