Sun Apr 06 11:20:00 UTC 2025: ## Measles Outbreak in West Texas Surges Past 480 Cases

**EL PASO, TX** – A measles outbreak in western Texas continues to escalate, with the number of confirmed cases reaching 481 as of Friday, according to the Texas Department of State Health Services (DSHS). Fifty-nine new infections were identified in the past three days alone. The vast majority of cases (98%) are in unvaccinated individuals or those with unknown vaccination status. Only ten cases involved individuals who had received one or two doses of the MMR vaccine.

The outbreak is centered in Gaines County, bordering New Mexico, where 315 cases have been confirmed. Children and teenagers aged 5-17 account for the largest number of cases (180), followed by children under 4 (157). At least 56 patients have required hospitalization.

Dr. Sapna Singh, chief medical officer for Texas Children’s Pediatrics in Houston, expressed concern that the reported cases likely represent only a fraction of the actual infections. Many individuals with mild symptoms may not seek testing or medical care.

Despite the surge, Dr. Singh emphasized the high effectiveness of the MMR vaccine, highlighting the small number of breakthrough cases. She explained that even in these rare instances, vaccinated individuals are less likely to develop severe illness, complications, or transmit the virus.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has confirmed 607 measles cases nationwide across 21 states, with approximately 97% occurring in unvaccinated individuals or those with unknown vaccination status. Similar to the Texas data, only a small percentage (3%) of national cases involved those with one or two MMR vaccine doses.

The CDC recommends two doses of the MMR vaccine for optimal protection. This outbreak underscores the growing concern over declining vaccination rates nationally and internationally, with this year’s case count already more than double last year’s total of 285. Health officials are urging parents to consult with pediatricians regarding vaccination status and the importance of MMR immunization to prevent further spread.

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