Measles Surge: Texas Hits 663 Cases Amid US Outbreaks

Measles cases in Texas have surged to 663, according to the state’s health department, marking an increase of 17 cases since April 25. This rise occurs amid one of the gravest outbreaks of the previously eradicated childhood disease in the US.

Gaines County, at the epicenter of the outbreak, reported 396 cases, an uptick of three since its last update. The Texas Department of State Health Services noted that 87 patients have required hospitalization.

Tragically, an eight-year-old child succumbed to measles on April 3, as reported by health secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. Without underlying health issues, the child died from what their doctor termed as “measles pulmonary failure.” Similarly, an unvaccinated six-year-old, also free of preexisting conditions, died in late February.

Health experts warn that the nation is precariously close to a resurgence of endemic measles, decades after the disease was declared eradicated in the country. “Although the rate of increase appears to be slowing, the ongoing rise in cases remains alarming,” said Sapna Singh, chief medical officer at Texas Children’s Pediatrics.

Meanwhile, New Mexico reported 66 cases, unchanged from its prior announcement, with most originating in Lea County, adjacent to Gaines County. Singh added, “Ideally, a few weeks without new cases would be a hopeful sign.”

Nationwide, the battle against measles is hindered by insufficient advocacy for vaccination and parental confusion from unverified treatment claims. Experts emphasize that vaccination is crucial, as measles, an airborne virus, spreads rapidly through breathing, sneezing, or coughing.

With active outbreaks in several states, the US approaches 900 cases, as per the CDC’s data. High vaccination rates, exceeding 95%, create “herd immunity,” reducing disease spread. However, vaccine coverage has waned post-pandemic, with more parents seeking exemptions for their children.