The Measles Outbreak in Texas and Beyond: What You Need to Know

Measles is making headlines in 2025 as outbreaks spread across multiple states, particularly in Texas and New Mexico. The situation is serious, with health officials forecasting that the outbreak might persist for an entire year.

Overview of the Outbreak

Currently, there have been at least 955 confirmed or probable cases of measles reported across the United States. Of these, 866 cases are directly linked to ongoing outbreaks, while 89 cases are isolated, typically originating from international travel. Alarmingly, this year marks the second-highest number of confirmed measles cases since the U.S. officially declared the disease eliminated in 2000. The concentration of cases in Texas, New Mexico, and Oklahoma represents the most significant outbreak recorded during this period.

Measles Cases by Region

Texas

The outbreak in Texas began in late January with the first cases reported in Gaines County, a rural area. The situation escalated quickly, resulting in at least 683 confirmed cases statewide. Among those infected, 653 are unvaccinated children and adults. Tragically, two unvaccinated children have died: a school-age girl in February and an 8-year-old girl in April, marking the first measles-related fatalities in the U.S. in a decade.

New Mexico

Measles has now crossed into New Mexico, particularly affecting Lea County, which borders Gaines County in Texas. A total of 67 cases have been reported across four counties in the state. An unvaccinated resident of Lea County has tested positive for the virus and died, though officials have not confirmed whether measles was the direct cause of death.

Oklahoma and Kansas

Oklahoma has reported 16 measles cases, with exposure locations noted in the Tulsa area and Oklahoma City. Kansas, on the other hand, has seen 46 cases, primarily among unvaccinated children. The initial cases were clustered near the Oklahoma border, and genetic sequencing indicates a link to the outbreaks in Texas and New Mexico.

Smaller Outbreaks Across the Nation

Aside from the major outbreaks in the Southwest, other states are reporting isolated cases:

• Ohio: Ashtabula County has recorded a small outbreak of 10 measles cases linked to international travel. Another 14 cases were reported in Knox County, also tied to earlier cases within the state.

• Indiana: Allen County reported an outbreak of six measles cases, with no known connections to other outbreaks.

• Pennsylvania: Erie County declared an outbreak of five linked cases, with additional isolated cases reported in the state.

• Michigan: Montcalm County reported three cases linked to an outbreak in Ontario, Canada.

• New Jersey: A small outbreak in Bergen County began when an international traveler infected two close contacts but has since been contained.

Understanding Measles Infection

Measles is extremely contagious, capable of spreading rapidly within communities that lack immunity. In hypothetical scenarios where a person with measles can infect up to 18 others, the impact on unvaccinated populations can be devastating. High vaccination rates are crucial; experts recommend a coverage rate of at least 94% to control and limit outbreaks effectively.

Compounding the issue, measles can lead to severe complications like pneumonia and brain swelling, resulting in long-term impacts, including blindness and intellectual disabilities. The virus can also induce “immune amnesia,” impairing the body’s ability to fend off previous infections.

Vaccination Rates and Community Impact

In Gaines County, the vaccination rates have been notably low, primarily due to a large Mennonite community that historically rejects vaccinations. Last year, only 82% of kindergarten students received their MMR vaccine, significantly below the 95% needed for community immunity.

In Lea County, New Mexico, childhood vaccination rates are higher at approximately 94%, but adult rates are concerning, with only 55% of adults fully vaccinated. This demographic imbalance contributes significantly to the current outbreak dynamics.

Conclusion

With measures in place to enhance vaccination efforts and educate communities about the benefits of immunization, health officials hope to stem the tide of this troubling outbreak. As more states report cases and officials work to contain the spread, it has never been more vital for communities to engage in proactive vaccinations to protect their health and the health of those around them.