News Summary
Bexar County health officials have reported the first confirmed case of measles in the area since 2019, associated with an outbreak in West Texas. As Texas records 753 total cases, the majority are unvaccinated individuals, raising public health concerns. Health officials urge vaccinations to prevent the spread of this highly contagious disease, especially among vulnerable populations, including young children. Tragically, two unvaccinated children have died due to this outbreak, highlighting the critical need for increased vaccination rates across the state.
San Antonio – Bexar County health officials confirmed the first case of measles in the area since 2019, linked to an ongoing outbreak in West Texas. The case, reported on July 1, 2025, was initially identified on June 15, 2025. Public health investigations have found no known public exposures associated with this case, but the situation underscores the rising alarm over measles in the state.
As of now, a total of 753 measles cases have been recorded across Texas since late January 2025, the majority concentrated in West Texas. Gaines County has reported the highest number of cases, with 414 infections, followed by other counties with significant outbreaks: Terry (60 cases), El Paso (59 cases), and Lubbock (53 cases). A concerning statistic shows that out of the total cases, 710 individuals are unvaccinated or have an unknown vaccination status, emphasizing a public health crisis that could have severe implications.
Among these cases, children under the age of 4 have been particularly affected, with 221 cases documented within this vulnerable age group. This demographic is known to be at greater risk for severe complications, such as pneumonia and encephalitis, diseases which can arise from measles infections. There are also reports of complications such as ear infections and diarrhea associated with this illness.
Tragically, the ongoing outbreak has resulted in the deaths of two unvaccinated school-aged children from the affected areas this year. This grim statistic raises further concerns among health officials about the necessity of vaccination in preventing such outbreaks and protecting vulnerable populations.
Health Recommendations
In light of the rising cases, the San Antonio Metropolitan Health District is urging residents to ensure they are vaccinated against measles. The measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR) vaccine is recommended for children, with the first dose administered between the ages of 12-15 months and a second dose at ages 4-6 years. Vaccination is a proven method of preventing measles transmission and protecting the wider community.
Recognizing Measles Symptoms
Individuals should be aware of the symptoms of measles, which include a high fever, cough, runny nose, and red, watery eyes. Those who believe they may have been exposed to the virus or are showing symptoms are advised to contact their local healthcare provider for guidance.
Context of the Ongoing Outbreak
The current measles outbreak in Texas has raised alarms due to the high number of cases and their geographical concentration. The rapid spread of the virus in areas with low vaccination rates poses a significant risk not only to unvaccinated individuals but also to those who cannot be vaccinated for medical reasons. The case in Bexar County is a stark reminder of the importance of maintaining high vaccination coverage to prevent future outbreaks and protect public health.
As health officials continue to monitor the situation, community engagement and awareness will be critical in ensuring that vaccination rates increase and those at risk are adequately protected against this highly contagious disease.
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Additional Resources
- San Antonio Express News
- Wikipedia: Measles
- KSAT News
- Google Search: Measles Outbreak Texas 2025
- Spectrum Local News
- Google Scholar: Measles Outbreak 2025
- San Antonio Current
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Measles
- KVUE News
- Google News: Measles Texas 2025
Author: STAFF HERE SAN ANTONIO WRITER
The SAN ANTONIO STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HERESanAntonio.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in San Antonio, Bexar County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Fiesta San Antonio, San Antonio Stock Show & Rodeo, and Dia de los Muertos. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Greater San Antonio Chamber of Commerce and United Way of San Antonio and Bexar County, plus leading businesses in retail, insurance, and energy that power the local economy such as H-E-B, USAA, and Valero Energy. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAustinTX.com, HERECollegeStation.com, HEREDallas.com, and HEREHouston.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Texas's dynamic landscape.
