A measles outbreak in Texas, originating in a community with low vaccination rates, has claimed two lives—the first US measles deaths in nearly a decade. The outbreak, encompassing over 120 cases, primarily affects children and is linked to decreased vaccination rates below the threshold for herd immunity. The situation has prompted calls for increased vaccination efforts and concern over recent firings of CDC staff involved in outbreak response. Hospitalizations resulting from the outbreak have reached 20, highlighting the severe complications measles can cause.
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A West Texas resident with measles visited multiple locations in San Antonio, New Braunfels, and San Marcos, Texas, between February 14th and 16th, prompting health officials to issue a warning. These locations included Texas State University, the University of Texas at San Antonio, the San Antonio River Walk, and a Buc-ees in New Braunfels. Individuals present at these locations during the specified times should monitor for symptoms. This outbreak, stemming from Gaines County (with an 18% unvaccinated rate), is the largest measles outbreak in Texas in three decades. Health officials urge vaccination to prevent further spread.
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As of Friday, a measles outbreak in northwest Texas has reached 90 confirmed cases, with 32 new cases reported since Tuesday and 16 hospitalizations. The outbreak is largely affecting unvaccinated individuals, particularly children and teens, in Gaines and Terry Counties, which have high vaccine exemption rates. Highly contagious, measles spreads easily through the air, and severe complications can be fatal. The surge coincides with Robert F. Kennedy Jr.’s recent appointment as health secretary, despite his history of anti-vaccine activism.
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Eleven-year-old Jocelynn Rojo Carranza died by suicide on February 8th following months of severe bullying at her school, Gainesville Intermediate, related to her family’s immigration status. The bullying, which included threats of ICE involvement, was known to school officials, who arranged counseling for Carranza but failed to inform her parents. Carranza’s mother, Marbella, is now seeking answers from the school regarding their inaction and lack of communication. This tragic event highlights the devastating consequences of unchecked bullying and the importance of open communication between schools and families.
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The New York Stock Exchange (NYSE) will establish a Texas presence, renaming NYSE Chicago as NYSE Texas to better serve the state’s burgeoning business sector and its numerous NYSE-listed companies, representing over $3.7 trillion in market value. This strategic move follows the announcement of a competing Texas Stock Exchange and reflects Texas’s increasingly business-friendly environment, particularly its stance against ESG regulations. The shift underscores Texas’s growing prominence as a corporate hub, attracting companies seeking alternatives to traditional financial centers. Trading will remain primarily electronic, with stocks listed on multiple exchanges.
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John Q. Hosedrinker