Texas Measles Outbreak Surpasses 500 Cases: Children Most Affected

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The measles outbreak in Texas continues rising, with over 500 confirmed cases to date. Children and teens make up most of these infections, especially those between ages 5 to 17. Alarmingly, 24 new cases were reported in the past five days alone.

Most infected individuals are unvaccinated or their vaccination status is unknown. Only ten people had received the recommended one or two doses of the MMR vaccine. Health officials confirm 57 patients hospitalized so far, many of them school-aged children.

Tragically, two unvaccinated children have died due to complications caused by the measles virus. Gaines County remains the center of the outbreak, now reporting 328 cases alone. It borders New Mexico and has experienced the fastest case surge in the state.

Meanwhile, cases have also spread nationally, with 607 measles infections now confirmed across 21 states. The CDC reports that 97% of national cases are either unvaccinated or have unknown immunization status. Just 3% of cases involved those partially or fully vaccinated.

The measles virus is highly contagious and spreads through coughs, sneezes, or airborne droplets. A single infected person can infect up to 18 others in close surroundings. Measles symptoms include fever, rash, cough, and red eyes.

Although measles was declared eliminated in the U.S. in 2000, declining vaccination rates have reignited outbreaks. The CDC strongly advises two MMR doses: one at 12-15 months and another between 4-6 years. One dose is 93% effective, while two offer 97% protection.

Some counties in Texas now urge early vaccination for babies aged 6-12 months. However, these children should still receive their two routine doses later. Therefore, this group needs three MMR doses in total to be fully protected.

Health authorities continue urging parents to check their children’s immunization records immediately. Even vaccinated individuals should remain alert during outbreaks in their communities.

To stop the spread, families should limit exposure, sanitize frequently, and avoid large gatherings. Most importantly, anyone showing measles symptoms should seek medical advice immediately.

The Texas outbreak serves as a critical reminder about the importance of vaccinations in safeguarding public health. Prompt immunization remains the strongest defense against this highly infectious virus.