• The measles outbreak in Texas has reached 624 confirmed cases.
• Majority of cases are among unvaccinated individuals, especially children and teens.
• This is now the largest measles outbreak in the U.S. since the disease was declared eliminated in 2000.
• Public health officials warn of risks to the elimination status due to rising cases.
• Two school-aged children have died due to complications from the outbreak.

As of this week, the Texas Department of State Health Services has confirmed 624 cases of measles in the state, reflecting an increase of 27 cases in just five days. Among these cases, at least 64 individuals have been hospitalized, and the outbreak has led to the deaths of two unvaccinated children. The epicenter of this surge is Gaines County, Texas, which has reported 386 cases thus far, signifying the outbreak’s concentration in particular localities. Texas officials state that the number of actively infectious cases is fewer than 10 as of the latest updates, with many patients now no longer contagious since their rash onset was over a week ago...

This outbreak is particularly alarming as it marks the largest single measles outbreak in the U.S. since the disease was declared eliminated in 2000, according to federal health experts. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) mentioned that this outbreak in Texas, Oklahoma, and New Mexico should be regarded as a unified crisis, with cases heavily impacting unvaccinated individuals. Currently, national statistics reveal that 96% of measles cases in the U.S. are found in individuals who remain unvaccinated or whose vaccination status is unknown, highlighting significant public health concerns...

Children aged five to seventeen are predominantly affected by this outbreak, with a noted increase among children under five as well. Public health recommendations continue to emphasize the importance of vaccination, particularly the measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR) vaccine, which is proven to be highly effective. Having received two doses of the MMR vaccine is crucial, as studies indicate that one dose offers 93% effectiveness while two doses provide 97% effectiveness against the virus...

Health officials warn that if the outbreak persists, it poses a risk to the U.S.'s status of measles elimination, a designation that has been in place for 25 years. The CDC's involvement now includes deploying additional personnel to aid in managing the situation and curbing the further spread of the highly contagious virus. Measles is known for its ability to infect those who come in contact with an infected individual and requires rapid and effective public health responses to protect communities...