Measles Outbreak in Texas and New Mexico Claims Two Lives as Cases Rise to 223

Declining vaccination rates drive a highly contagious measles outbreak, with most cases involving unvaccinated individuals.

The outbreak has resulted in 223 confirmed cases in Texas since January, with 29 hospitalizations and one confirmed death in a school-aged child.
New Mexico has reported 33 additional cases, including one death of an unvaccinated adult, bringing the total fatalities to two.
The majority of infections are among unvaccinated individuals, with the vaccination rate in some areas falling below the 95% threshold needed for herd immunity.
Health experts warn of severe complications from measles, including pneumonia, encephalitis, and immune system suppression, particularly in young children.
Officials emphasize the importance of the measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR) vaccine, which is 97% effective with two doses, as the best prevention method.