Measles cases are rising across the United States, with the largest outbreak reported in Texas. Since late January, 90 cases have been identified in the South Plains region, with 16 patients requiring hospitalization. Gaines County has reported the highest number of cases in the state, with 57 confirmed infections. Nearby, New Mexico’s Lea County, which borders Gaines County, has reported at least eight cases. Other states, including Alaska, Georgia, New York, and Rhode Island, have also seen measles cases this year.
Measles is a highly contagious disease that is making a resurgence as vaccination rates decline. In Texas, only five of the reported patients had been vaccinated. The disease spreads through respiratory droplets from coughing and sneezing, and it can linger in the air and on surfaces for hours. Symptoms typically appear 7-14 days after exposure and include high fever, cough, runny nose, and a characteristic red rash that starts on the face and spreads to the rest of the body. Severe complications can include pneumonia, brain swelling (encephalitis), and even death, especially in young children and immunocompromised individuals.
Health experts agree that vaccination is the most effective way to prevent measles. Two doses of the measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR) vaccine provide 97% protection against the virus. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends that all children receive two doses of the MMR vaccine: the first between 12-15 months of age and the second between 4-6 years old. If older children remain unvaccinated, they should still receive the vaccine.
It’s not only children who need protection. Adults who lack immunity should receive at least one dose of the MMR vaccine. Some groups, such as those in college, healthcare workers, people in contact with immunocompromised individuals, and those who travel internationally, need two doses for full protection.
Evidence of immunity includes documented proof of vaccination, a positive test for measles IgG antibodies, or a history of confirmed measles infection. Generally, adults born before 1957 are presumed to be immune, as they likely had the disease in childhood before the vaccine was widely available. Those born in 1957 or later should receive at least one dose of the MMR vaccine if they have not been vaccinated or do not have evidence of immunity.
A special recommendation applies to adults who received a measles vaccine in the 1960s when some versions used a killed-virus formulation. Those vaccinated between 1963 and 1967 may not have received the more effective live-virus vaccine used today. If there’s no record of the vaccine type, a new dose is advised.
Women of childbearing age should also ensure they are vaccinated against measles, unless they are pregnant, have proof of immunity, or have been vaccinated for rubella. Pregnant women cannot receive the vaccine due to the risk of birth defects but should be immunized before pregnancy if they are not already protected.
With measles cases on the rise, health officials warn that the total number this year could surpass last year’s count of 285 cases, which was significantly higher than the 59 cases reported in 2023. As the outbreak grows, staying up to date on vaccinations remains the best defense against this highly contagious disease.
