Texas is seeing a worrying rise in measles cases, and now health experts say the situation could impact the entire country. With most recent cases reported in Texas, surrounding states are also beginning to report new infections — raising national and even global health concerns.
How Did the Measles Outbreak Begin?
According to a report by ABC13, the number of measles cases in Texas has been going up for some time. Most of the current cases in the United States are from Texas, and as the virus spreads, nearby states have also started reporting cases.
This isn’t just a Texas issue anymore. Experts believe that low vaccination rates, especially among school-aged children, are at the root of the problem.
Dr. Glenn Fennelly, a specialist in pediatric infectious diseases and assistant vice president of global health at Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center El Paso, explained:
“This shows that vaccine exemption policies put not just communities, but entire regions at risk. Measles is very contagious. If this continues, we could even threaten global health stability.”
Why Measles Is So Dangerous
Measles is one of the most contagious viruses in the world. It spreads easily through coughing, sneezing, and close contact. In unvaccinated people, especially children, measles can lead to serious complications like pneumonia, brain swelling, and even death.
The virus can spread rapidly if a community has low vaccination coverage, and that’s exactly what is happening in some parts of Texas.
What’s Being Done to Control the Outbreak?
Sadly, this is not a problem that can be fixed overnight. According to health officials, it may take up to a year for Texas to bring the situation under control.
Dr. Phil Huang, Director of Dallas County Health and Human Services, shared:
“There are several areas in Texas where large groups of children are not vaccinated. We’ve sent letters to public and private schools with low vaccination rates, urging them to update students’ shots.”
To prevent further spread, doctors and health experts are urging everyone — both adults and children — to get vaccinated against measles.
How Vaccination Helps
The measles vaccine is safe, effective, and part of the MMR vaccine (measles, mumps, rubella). Children usually receive two doses — one at 12-15 months, and another at 4-6 years.
Vaccines not only protect the individual but also stop the virus from spreading to others, especially to those who cannot be vaccinated due to medical conditions.