Largest Texas Measles Outbreak in 30 Years Grows to 355 Cases Across Three States

The outbreak has resulted in two deaths, 42 hospitalizations, and heightened concerns over vaccine hesitancy in affected communities.

The measles outbreak, originating in Gaines County, Texas, has expanded to 355 confirmed cases across Texas, New Mexico, and Oklahoma.
Two deaths have been reported: a 6-year-old unvaccinated girl in Texas and an adult in New Mexico, with 42 individuals hospitalized so far.
The epicenter, Gaines County, has one of the state's lowest vaccination rates, with nearly 18% of children exempt from immunizations.
Vaccination rates have risen in Texas and New Mexico during the outbreak, but they remain insufficient to reach herd immunity in key areas.
Public health officials warn the outbreak could persist for months, potentially jeopardizing the U.S.'s measles elimination status if it continues for a year.