Health officials in Texas and New Mexico are closely monitoring measles outbreaks as the number of reported cases approaches 100.

Texas Reports 90 Measles Cases, Mostly Among Children

The Texas Department of State Health Services confirmed on Friday that 90 measles cases have been diagnosed in the past month in the South Plains region, located in the northwestern part of the state. Alarmingly, at least 77 cases involve children and teenagers under 17.

New Mexico Confirms Outbreak Near Texas Border

Meanwhile, health officials in New Mexico reported nine measles cases in Lea County, near the state’s eastern border with Texas.

Measles: A Highly Contagious and Dangerous Disease

Measles is one of the most contagious infectious diseases known to humans and can lead to severe complications, including pneumonia, neurological damage, hearing loss, and even death. Pregnant women and young children are particularly vulnerable.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), two doses of the measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR) vaccine provide 97% effectiveness in preventing infection. However, declining vaccination rates in some communities have contributed to the resurgence of this once-preventable disease.

Declining Vaccination Rates and Rising Anti-Vaccine Sentiment

Despite efforts to promote vaccination, some communities have seen a rise in vaccine exemptions. In Gaines County, Texas, where 57 measles cases were reported, 17.62% of students had a vaccine exemption in the 2023-2024 school year, up from 7.45% in 2013-2014. In Terry County, where 20 cases were confirmed, exemption rates also increased from 0% to 3.73% over the past decade.

Federal data shows Texas achieved a 94.3% MMR vaccination rate among kindergarteners in the 2023-2024 school year, slightly below the 95% threshold needed for herd immunity. New Mexico reached 95% coverage, but officials remain concerned about localized outbreaks.

Measles Outbreaks and Religious Exemptions

Many of the unvaccinated individuals affected by the outbreak belong to Mennonite communities, which traditionally have lower vaccination rates due to religious beliefs. In Texas, 85 of the 90 reported cases involve unvaccinated individuals or those with unknown vaccination status.

While most U.S. states require MMR vaccination for school enrollment, Texas allows conscientious exemptions, which have risen in recent years. This trend aligns with growing anti-vaccine sentiment, fueled by misinformation and skepticism about vaccine safety.

Urgent Call for Vaccination Amid Measles Spike

Health experts emphasize that measles outbreaks are preventable with high vaccination rates. Before the 1963 introduction of the measles vaccine, approximately 48,000 Americans were hospitalized each year, with 400-500 deaths annually. In 2024, the U.S. reported 285 measles cases, resulting in 114 hospitalizations.

To curb the current outbreak, New Mexico health officials are offering free vaccination clinics this week. Texas residents are also encouraged to contact healthcare providers or visit clinics to receive the MMR vaccine if they have not yet been immunized.

Stay Informed & Protected

Measles remains a serious public health concern, but vaccination is the best defense against outbreaks. Health officials urge families to ensure their children are up to date on immunizations to prevent further spread.