Photo credit: arstechnica.com

Measles Outbreak in Texas Gains Momentum Amid Low Vaccination Rates

A measles outbreak in Texas is intensifying, with confirmed cases doubling since earlier this week. The outbreak originates from an area with particularly low vaccination rates and has now spread beyond its initial location, raising alarms among health officials.

Last week, officials confirmed nine cases in Gaines County, situated along the New Mexico border. This region has one of the lowest vaccination rates for kindergartners in Texas, standing at approximately 82 percent. As of Tuesday, the case count had surged to 24, all confined to Gaines County. However, the latest update from the state health department reveals that the total number of cases has escalated to 48 and has spread into three adjoining counties.

Currently, Gaines County reports 42 cases. Lynn County, located to the northeast, has one confirmed case and boasts a 91 percent vaccination rate. In addition, Terry County, with a 94 percent vaccination rate, has reported three cases, while Yoakum County, standing at 92.5 percent vaccination coverage, has two cases. Both Terry and Yoakum Counties lie directly north of Gaines.

Health officials emphasize that all cases to date involve individuals who are unvaccinated or whose vaccination status is unclear. Notably, out of the 48 total cases, 42 involve children, with 13 aged between 0 and 4 years. The outbreak’s severity is underscored by the fact that 13 individuals, accounting for 27 percent of cases, have required hospitalization.

This alarming trend highlights the critical importance of maintaining high vaccination rates to prevent the spread of infectious diseases like measles, particularly in vulnerable communities. Health professionals are urging parents to ensure their children’s vaccinations are up to date as officials work to contain the outbreak.

Source
arstechnica.com