A measles outbreak in West Texas, resulting in at least one fatality, has prompted concern. Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. acknowledged the outbreak, stating that such occurrences are annual events. His statement downplayed the severity of the current situation. Further investigation and preventative measures are needed to address the ongoing health crisis.
West Texas is experiencing its largest measles outbreak in nearly 30 years, resulting in the first measles-related death in the U.S. since 2015. The deceased was an unvaccinated school-aged child, highlighting the undervaccination within the affected Mennonite community. The outbreak, spanning nine counties and impacting neighboring New Mexico, largely affects children under 18 and is linked to low vaccination rates in some private schools and homeschooling families. The CDC is assisting state health officials in their response.
A measles outbreak in West Texas has resulted in 58 confirmed cases, primarily affecting unvaccinated children aged 5-17, across several counties. Thirteen individuals have required hospitalization, and free vaccination clinics have been established in response. Low MMR vaccination rates, particularly in Gaines County, are contributing factors to the outbreak’s spread, mirroring a national trend of insufficient vaccination coverage. A related outbreak in neighboring New Mexico has also seen eight cases.
A measles outbreak in West Texas’ Gaines County has rapidly grown to 20 confirmed and probable cases, primarily affecting unvaccinated children. Low vaccination rates in the county, with an 18% exemption rate among kindergartners—significantly higher than the state and national averages—are contributing to the outbreak’s spread. The highly contagious nature of measles necessitates immediate vaccination efforts, with health officials urging residents to get vaccinated and receive booster shots as needed. A local clinic offering testing and vaccination is now operational.
John Q. Hosedrinker