A child who was not vaccinated has tragically died from measles in West Texas, marking the first death in an outbreak that began late last month and the first measles-related death in the U.S. since 2015. The Texas Department of State Health Services confirmed the death of a school-aged child who had not been vaccinated and had been hospitalized last week. The measles outbreak in rural West Texas has now grown to 124 cases across nine counties, making it the largest outbreak in Texas in nearly 30 years. Additionally, there are nine cases reported in eastern New Mexico.
The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention has verified that this is the first measles-related death in the country since 2015. Vaccination rates have declined nationwide since the COVID-19 pandemic, with most states falling below the 95% vaccination threshold for kindergartners, which is crucial for preventing measles outbreaks.
The outbreak is primarily affecting the Mennonite community in West Texas, with the majority of cases occurring among individuals younger than 18. The measles, mumps, and rubella vaccine is highly recommended for children between 12 and 15 months old for the first shot, with the second dose administered between 4 and 6 years old. The vaccine series is mandatory for children entering kindergarten in public schools across the country.
Measles is a highly contagious respiratory virus that can linger in the air for up to two hours. The virus can lead to severe complications such as pneumonia, blindness, brain swelling, and even death. The U.S. Centers for Disease Control is providing technical assistance, laboratory support, and vaccines as needed to West Texas, while the state health department is spearheading the outbreak investigation.
Efforts are underway to contain the outbreak and protect the health and safety of the community. It is crucial for individuals, especially children, to receive the measles vaccine to prevent further spread of the virus and safeguard public health.
