West Texas Measles Outbreak Linked to Low Vaccination Rates
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