Texas Measles Outbreak Claims First US Life in Years

The number of measles cases in Texas has climbed to 146, marking the state's largest outbreak in nearly three decades. This surge has tragically claimed the life of an unvaccinated school-aged child, the first US death from the highly contagious disease since 2015.

The outbreak has primarily affected rural West Texas, particularly a close-knit Mennonite community with low vaccination rates. This region boasts one of the highest opt-out rates for school-aged children in the state, with nearly 14% skipping at least one required vaccine during the past school year.

Texas law allows exemptions from school vaccinations for religious and conscientious reasons. However, the actual number of unvaccinated children in Gaines County is likely much higher, as data on home-schooled children is not reported.

The measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR) vaccine is highly effective and safe, offering crucial protection against this potentially severe illness. The first dose is recommended for children between 12 and 15 months, followed by a second dose at ages four to six. While most children recover from measles, it can lead to serious complications like pneumonia, blindness, brain swelling, and even death.

The COVID-19 pandemic has unfortunately led to a decline in vaccination rates nationwide. Most states now fall below the 95% vaccination threshold for kindergartners, which is essential for protecting communities from measles outbreaks.

The US had previously considered measles eliminated in 2000, signifying a halt in continuous spread for at least a year. However, cases have risen in recent years, including a Chicago outbreak in 2024 that affected over 60 individuals.

Eastern New Mexico has also reported nine cases of measles, but health officials have confirmed no connection to the West Texas outbreak.