Sun Apr 06 21:52:00 UTC 2025: ## Measles Outbreak Spreads Across US, Claiming Third Child’s Life

**Lubbock, Texas — April 7, 2025** — A multi-state measles outbreak continues to ravage the United States, claiming a third life and surpassing the total number of cases seen in all of 2024. An eight-year-old child in Texas died Thursday from complications related to the highly contagious virus, according to state health officials. The child was unvaccinated.

The outbreak, which began in West Texas in late January, has now spread to at least six states: Texas, New Mexico, Kansas, Ohio, Oklahoma, and with confirmed cases in several others. Texas remains the epicenter, reporting a surge of 59 new cases on Friday, bringing its total to 481 cases across 19 counties. The majority of cases are concentrated in Gaines County, where the virus initially spread within an under-vaccinated Mennonite community. The state has also seen 14 new hospitalizations, bringing the total to 56.

New Mexico has confirmed 54 cases, with a link to the Texas outbreak confirmed through genetic testing. Kansas has 24 cases, while Oklahoma and Ohio have reported a smaller but increasing number of cases. The CDC has identified six measles outbreaks across the US in 2025.

Health officials emphasize the outbreak’s connection to low vaccination rates in affected communities. The World Health Organization has even linked cases in Mexico to the Texas outbreak. Experts warn that the spread could continue for a year.

The CDC recommends the MMR vaccine as the best prevention method. While adults with documented prior vaccination generally don’t need boosters, those living in outbreak areas or with compromised immune systems may want to consult their doctor. The agency also clarified vaccination guidelines for those immunized with older, less effective vaccines.

Measles symptoms include fever, runny nose, cough, and a characteristic rash. While most children recover, complications like pneumonia and encephalitis can be life-threatening. The increase in cases underscores the importance of vaccination and highlights the ongoing challenge of maintaining herd immunity in the face of declining childhood vaccination rates.

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