Texas Measles Outbreak Reaches Near 30-Year High

A measles outbreak in Texas has reached alarming proportions, with 48 confirmed cases, marking the state's worst such outbreak in nearly three decades. Local health officials warn that additional cases are highly likely.

The severity of the outbreak is underscored by the fact that at least 13 individuals have been hospitalized due to measles complications, according to Texas officials. The impact extends beyond Texas borders as well. New Mexico's Health Department confirmed a case last week in an area bordering Gaines County, Texas, where the outbreak is centered. Notably, the infected teenager had not traveled to Texas, leaving authorities puzzled about the source of exposure.

Measles Cases Across the Nation

The current outbreak in Texas is not isolated. Other states have also reported measles cases this year. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), Alaska, Georgia, New York, and Rhode Island have each recorded cases. This nationwide trend highlights the widespread nature of the threat posed by measles.

The Role of Vaccination Rates

Dr. Céline Gounder, a CBS News medical contributor and editor-at-large for public health at KFF Health News, emphasized the crucial role of vaccination in preventing measles outbreaks on "CBS Mornings" Monday. She pointed out that even slight dips in vaccination coverage can lead to outbreaks. "This is a measles outbreak that began in a very close-knit, rural, Mennonite community that has very low vaccination rates. And unfortunately, we have seen vaccination rate exemptions ... really soar in Texas in recent years," she said.

The Contagious Nature of Measles

Dr. Gounder described measles as "the most contagious infectious disease out there." She explained that achieving high vaccination levels is essential to prevent outbreaks. "You need very high levels of vaccination to prevent an outbreak. So even a dip from 95% coverage to 93% coverage can leave you vulnerable to having outbreaks," she said.

Effectiveness and Safety of the Measles Vaccine

Despite the seriousness of measles, the vaccine is highly effective and safe. It is typically administered as part of the combined measles-mumps-rubella (MMR) vaccine. "Two doses get you to 97% protection and effectiveness against developing measles infection," Dr. Gounder stated. She stressed that vaccination significantly reduces the risk of hospitalization and death from measles. Before the vaccine became available in the 1960s, measles claimed the lives of between 400 and 500 Americans—mostly children—every year.

Concerns About Vaccination Exemptions

Recent KFF polling reveals that approximately 17% of parents report skipping or delaying a vaccine dose for their children. This figure represents an increase from about 10% just two years ago. Dr. Gounder expressed concern over this trend, stating, "So we're really seeing a lot of exemptions [and] concerns about vaccination that are not warranted." She highlighted the importance of relying on scientific evidence and expert recommendations regarding vaccinations.

Measles Symptoms

Measles symptoms typically appear 7 to 14 days after exposure to the virus. Initially, they may resemble those of common viral illnesses, such as fever, cough, runny nose, and red eyes. Several days later, characteristic tiny white spots develop inside the mouth, accompanied by a facial rash that spreads to the rest of the body.

Dr. Gounder described the rash as "a flat, blotchy red rash." She cautioned about fevers as high as 104 degrees Fahrenheit, indicating a potential for more serious complications. The infection can spread to the brain, lungs, and other organs, leading to severe health consequences such as cognitive issues, deafness, pneumonia, and even death.

Serious Complications of Measles

Data from the CDC show that up to 1 in 20 children with measles may develop pneumonia. While most people recover, unvaccinated individuals face a higher risk of hospitalization, brain swelling (which can cause brain damage), and death. These statistics underscore the importance of vaccination in protecting against the potentially life-threatening consequences of measles.