Hundreds Now Feared Infected With Measles in Texas

February 17, 2025 – Texas is grappling with its most severe measles outbreak in nearly three decades, with 48 confirmed cases reported. The outbreak originated in Gaines County and has since extended to neighboring Lynn, Terry, and Yoakum counties.

The counties currently experiencing the outbreak are in extreme West Texas. One borders New Mexico. It’s about a 7 hour drive straight west of Hopkins County.

Alarmingly, 13 individuals have required hospitalization. The majority of those affected are unvaccinated children and teenagers, with 13 patients aged four years or younger. Health officials attribute the rapid spread to low vaccination rates in these communities, exacerbated by a significant number of vaccine exemptions among school-aged children. The Texas Department of State Health Services emphasizes the critical importance of the MMR vaccine, which is highly effective in preventing measles.

The measles outbreak in Gaines County, West Texas, is spreading within a “close-knit, undervaccinated” Mennonite community, according to state officials. However, DSHS spokesperson Lara Anton emphasized that the church itself isn’t responsible for low vaccination rates, attributing them instead to personal choice and limited access to regular healthcare.

Efforts are underway to contain the outbreak, including increased vaccination clinics and public awareness campaigns. Neighboring New Mexico has also reported cases linked to this outbreak, raising concerns about further regional spread. Health experts warn that without prompt intervention and improved vaccination coverage, the number of infections could rise, posing a significant public health risk. The situation underscores the necessity of maintaining high immunization rates to prevent such outbreaks.