The Texas Department of State Health Services (DSHS) has raised alarm as the number of confirmed measles cases in the state has climbed to 597, marking a sharp rise in infections since the start of the year. The outbreak, which has primarily gripped communities in West Texas, has become one of the most significant public health challenges in the state in recent years.
Health officials confirmed on Friday that the new figures represent an increase of 36 cases since the previous update earlier this week. With the highly contagious virus spreading quickly through unvaccinated populations, state and federal agencies are ramping up containment efforts to prevent further transmission.
West Texas Hit Hardest
According to the DSHS, the outbreak has been concentrated in West Texas, where low vaccination rates and close-knit community interactions have allowed the virus to flourish. The department revealed that approximately 4% of the current confirmed cases — at least 30 individuals — are considered “actively infectious,” meaning their rash onset occurred less than a week ago and they could still spread the virus to others.
“These active cases remain a serious concern,” the DSHS said in a statement. “We urge residents, especially parents and caregivers, to take immediate preventative action, including verifying vaccination records and avoiding close contact with anyone showing symptoms of measles.”
Hospitalizations and Death Toll
The outbreak has led to at least 62 hospitalizations so far, with four new patients admitted since Tuesday, officials said. The disease has also claimed the lives of two children, both of school age and residents of the affected region. These fatalities underscore the severe nature of the virus, particularly among young and unvaccinated individuals.
Measles is a highly contagious respiratory disease that can lead to severe complications, including pneumonia, brain swelling (encephalitis), and death — particularly in children under the age of five and individuals with compromised immune systems.
Federal Health Response
In response to the growing crisis, the federal government earlier this week announced the deployment of a specialized team of seven public health professionals to Texas. The group, made up of epidemiologists and disease response experts from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), is working alongside state and local health authorities to trace infections, distribute vaccines, and educate the public on preventative measures.
“This outbreak demands a swift, coordinated response,” said a CDC spokesperson. “We are supporting Texas health officials in containing the spread and ensuring that vulnerable populations, especially school-aged children, are protected.”
The CDC continues to emphasize the importance of the measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR) vaccine, which provides around 97% effectiveness after two doses. Communities with low vaccination rates are particularly susceptible to outbreaks, even from a single imported case.
DSHS Urges Immediate Precautions
In a strongly worded advisory, the Texas Department of State Health Services warned that the number of cases is likely to increase in the coming days and weeks due to the nature of the virus. Measles can remain airborne or live on surfaces for up to two hours, making it one of the most easily transmitted infectious diseases.
“Given the contagiousness of measles and the mobility of the population, we expect additional cases in outbreak areas and surrounding communities,” the department stated. “Anyone who has not been vaccinated or has not had measles in the past is at risk.”
Health officials also recommended that individuals experiencing symptoms — such as high fever, cough, runny nose, red eyes, or the telltale red rash — contact a healthcare provider immediately and avoid public areas to limit exposure to others.
The Measles Comeback
Measles was declared eliminated in the United States in 2000 thanks to a strong national vaccination campaign. However, in recent years, vaccine hesitancy, fueled by misinformation and declining immunization rates, has led to the resurgence of the disease in several parts of the country.
Public health experts have warned that the Texas outbreak is a sign of vulnerabilities in the U.S. immunization infrastructure, especially in states where vaccine exemptions for personal or religious beliefs are more common.
Dr. Lisa Gomez, a pediatric infectious disease specialist based in El Paso, noted: “The re-emergence of measles is entirely preventable. We have a safe, effective vaccine. The problem lies in misinformation and complacency. These outbreaks are the cost of that.”
Schools on High Alert
In response to the rising cases, school districts in West Texas have begun issuing alerts to parents, reminding them of vaccination requirements and encouraging them to report any suspected symptoms in their children. Some schools have reinstated mask mandates and temporary closures of affected classrooms as a precaution.
The Texas Education Agency (TEA) also issued a notice reminding school administrators that state law requires students to be vaccinated against measles unless they have a valid medical or conscientious exemption. School nurses are being instructed to monitor absenteeism rates and to collaborate closely with local health departments.
Community Action and Outreach
Nonprofits and local clinics have stepped up outreach efforts, particularly in rural areas, by offering free or low-cost vaccinations and hosting town halls to dispel myths about immunization. Many of the affected communities include underserved populations where access to healthcare has historically been limited.
“We’re seeing an outpouring of concern from parents who just didn’t have the right information or didn’t realize the urgency of getting their children vaccinated,” said Rosa Martinez, a community health advocate in Midland. “Now, with two children dead and hundreds sick, the reality is hitting home.”
Looking Ahead
The DSHS says it will continue to update the public regularly and has urged Texans not to panic, but to remain vigilant. Officials are calling on healthcare providers, educators, and community leaders to play active roles in promoting vaccination and halting the spread of the virus.
“This outbreak is a wake-up call,” the department concluded. “With community cooperation and science-backed strategies, we can protect our children, families, and neighbors.”
