News Summary
The measles outbreak in Texas has surged to 722 confirmed cases, with children and teens making up two-thirds of infections. The outbreak is primarily in the South Plains region, with two reported deaths. Hospitalizations have occurred, highlighting the virus’s seriousness, especially among young populations. Health officials urge vaccination to curb further spread.
Texas – The ongoing measles outbreak in Texas has seen a rise in cases, reaching a total of 722 confirmed infections as of April 5, 2025. This reflects an increase of four cases since the previous report. The Texas Department of State Health Services (DSHS) indicates that the outbreak is concentrated mainly in the South Plains region of Texas, with a notable expansion into the San Antonio area, marking the first reported case there, as well as the first infection in Atascosa County, located just south of San Antonio.
Among the reported cases, approximately two-thirds involve children and teens, emphasizing the vulnerability of younger populations. Disturbingly, over 95% of those infected have either not received the measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR) vaccine or have an unknown vaccination history. The DSHS has confirmed that a total of 92 individuals have required hospitalization due to complications related to the outbreak, which also includes the tragic deaths of two children, aged 8 and 6.
This measles outbreak is now recognized as the largest in the United States in the last 25 years, although recent reports suggest a decrease in new infections in Texas. The DSHS has observed hopeful signs, although experts advise continued caution and vigilance to prevent further transmission.
New information indicates ongoing measles transmission across seven counties, including Cochran, Dawson, Gaines, Lamar, Lubbock, Terry, and Yoakum. Specific areas reporting new cases include El Paso County, which has recorded two additional cases, bringing its total to 54, and Lubbock County, with one new case resulting in a total of 53. The largest number of cases has been recorded in Gaines County, accounting for over 56% of the total infections with 406 cases documented.
Currently, there are 213 cases reported in children younger than 5 years old and 272 cases in individuals aged 5 to 17. The DSHS estimates that only fewer than 10 cases (approximately 1% of all cases) remain actively infectious. Measles is notably contagious, spreading from four days before the rash appears to four days after it subsides, which highlights the importance of rapid response and vaccination efforts in curbing the outbreak.
The measles virus can lead to serious complications, especially in young children, including pneumonia and brain inflammation. Symptoms of measles typically include a high fever, cough, runny nose, red and watery eyes, and a distinct rash that progresses downward from the face.
On a national level, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has reported a total of 1,024 measles cases in the United States, with the majority linked to this Texas outbreak, highlighting concerns for neighboring states such as New Mexico and Oklahoma. In addition to outbreak-related cases, there are 15 additional measles infections reported in various Texas counties, including Brazoria, Collin, and Harris, which are not connected to the ongoing outbreak.
As the situation continues to evolve, health officials urge communities to stay informed about vaccination options. The MMR vaccine is known to be highly effective, with a 93% effectiveness rate after the first dose and a 97% effectiveness rate after the second dose. Public health campaigns stress the importance of immunization as the most effective strategy to prevent further spread of measles and protect vulnerable populations.
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Additional Resources
- Bloomberg: Texas Measles Outbreak Slows
- Wikipedia: Measles
- AP News: Measles Vaccination in Texas
- Google Search: Texas Measles Outbreak
- SA Current: Texas Measles Cases Rise
- Google Scholar: Measles Outbreak Texas
- Forbes: Measles Updates in Texas
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Measles
- Reuters: Graphics on Measles
- Google News: Measles Outbreak 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.
