An unvaccinated school-aged child in Lubbock has died from measles, marking the first fatality in an outbreak that has spread across nine West Texas counties. The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) confirmed that this is the first measles-related death in the country since 2015.

The Texas Department of State Health Services (DSHS) reported that the outbreak began in Gaines County last month and has now grown to 124 confirmed cases. At least 18 people have been hospitalized. The majority of those affected are children.

In response to the outbreak, Governor Greg Abbott has deployed epidemiologists and vaccination teams to the affected areas. His office remains in regular communication with state health officials, receiving daily updates and coordinating efforts with local authorities.

 

 

A Preventable Disease Returns

Measles was declared eliminated in the United States in 2000, thanks to widespread vaccination. However, vaccination rates have declined since the pandemic, and many states now fall below the 95% immunization threshold necessary to prevent outbreaks. Nationwide, about 93% of kindergartners are vaccinated against the disease.

The CDC warns that measles is highly contagious, with up to 90% of unvaccinated individuals contracting the virus upon exposure. The disease spreads through respiratory droplets and can remain airborne for up to two hours in enclosed spaces. While most children recover, measles can lead to severe complications, including pneumonia, brain swelling, blindness, and death. Health officials urge Texans to ensure their vaccinations are up to date to protect themselves and their communities.

The CDC outlines the typical progression of measles symptoms:

Early symptoms (7-14 days after exposure):

  • High fever (potentially over 104°F)
  • Cough
  • Runny nose
  • Red, watery eyes (conjunctivitis)
  • Tiny white spots inside the mouth (appear 2-3 days after symptoms begin)

Measles rash (3-5 days after symptoms start):

  • Begins as flat red spots on the face, spreading downward
  • Small raised bumps may appear over the red spots
  • Spots may merge as they spread across the body
  • Fever may spike above 104°F when the rash appears

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