Williamson County reports confirmed measles cases amid health concerns

WILLIAMSON COUNTY, Texas — The Texas Department of State Health Services (DSHS) reported Friday that at least six people in Williamson County displayed symptoms of measles. However, the local health department clarified that only two of these cases are confirmed through laboratory tests, raising public health concerns.

In a statement, a spokesperson for the Williamson County and Cities Health District (WCCHD) emphasized that they are only counting “lab-confirmed positive measles” cases at this time. “Other cases may be reported as related or positive by DSHS using criteria other than a lab-confirmed test,” the spokesperson said.

The DSHS clarified that the six cases referred to four individuals who exhibited measles symptoms associated with the two confirmed cases. A DSHS spokesperson added, “Fortunately, there’s not a concern about public exposures to other people,” indicating that these cases are not connected to the widespread outbreak in West Texas, which has seen 738 confirmed cases since late January.

Health officials reported the first confirmed cases on May 22, involving a child from Leander who attends Bar W. Elementary School in Liberty Hill. The child’s vaccination status was not disclosed by the family, complicating risk assessment for potential exposure.

On May 27, health officials confirmed a second case involving an unvaccinated adult from Leander. This individual was no longer contagious and had not been in Williamson County during their infectious period.

Dr. Goddy Corpuz, with Baylor Scott & White Clinic in Cedar Park, noted an uptick in inquiries from concerned parents about measles and vaccination status. “Our focus is on staying alert and making sure everyone’s protected,” Corpuz said, encouraging families to vaccinate against measles.

Those experiencing measles symptoms—such as fever, cough, and red eyes—should seek medical attention. Dr. Corpuz pointed out that the most vulnerable populations include immunocompromised individuals, pregnant women, and infants under six months old.

As summer travel approaches, Corpuz advises families to ensure vaccinations are up to date at least two weeks before travel.