A significant measles outbreak is affecting Texas and New Mexico, marking the largest resurgence of the disease in decades. In Texas, 58 cases have been confirmed in the South Plains region, with Gaines County reporting the highest number of infections. Most of the affected individuals are unvaccinated children, leading to 13 hospitalizations. Health officials link the outbreak to low vaccination rates within Gaines County.
New Mexico has confirmed eight measles cases in Lea County, affecting both adults and children. Although no direct contact has been found between the cases in Texas and New Mexico, the proximity of the two regions has raised concerns about further spread.
In response, the Texas Department of State Health Services (DSHS) and the New Mexico Department of Health (NMDOH) are working with local health departments to contain the outbreak. Vaccination clinics are being set up in affected areas, and public health campaigns are underway to educate communities about the importance of the measles-mumps-rubella (MMR) vaccine. The MMR vaccine is highly effective, with two doses providing approximately 97% protection against measles.
This outbreak serves as a reminder of the importance of maintaining high vaccination rates to protect communities from preventable diseases.
For more information, visit:
Texas Department of State Health Services https://www.dshs.texas.gov/news-alerts/measles-outbreak-feb-18-2025?utm_source=chatgpt.com
New Mexico Department of Health https://www.nmhealth.org/news/vaccine/2025/2/?view=2180&utm_source=chatgpt.com
Melissa Massey-Program Manager for Education and Training for the SPECTRE program.