Growing Measles Cases in the US Raise Health Concerns
The number of measles cases in Texas and New Mexico has surged to 370, marking an increase of 19 infections within just four days. This rise comes amid one of the largest measles outbreaks in the United States in the past decade.
Gaines County: The Epicenter of the Measles Outbreak
According to the Texas Department of State Health Services, the outbreak, which began in late January, has significantly impacted Gaines County, Texas. The number of infections there has climbed from 211 to 226 cases.
Recent data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reveals that the combined total cases from Texas and New Mexico have now exceeded last year’s nationwide count of 285 infections.
Statewide Impact: Texas and New Mexico Cases Surge
Since March 21, the number of reported cases has risen in both states:
- New Mexico has confirmed one additional case, bringing its total to 43 infections.
- Texas reported 18 new cases, bringing its total to 327 infections.
Most of New Mexico’s cases have been reported in Lea County, which shares a border with Gaines County, Texas.
Majority of Infected Individuals Are Unvaccinated
In Texas, 325 of the 327 reported cases involve individuals who were either unvaccinated or had an unknown vaccination status. This number has increased from 307 previously reported cases.
Similarly, in New Mexico, the latest infected individual is among the 31 people who had not received the measles vaccine.
Experts Warn of Prolonged Outbreak Due to Vaccine Hesitancy
Health experts caution that the outbreak could take time to control due to vaccine hesitancy.
“It’s going to take time to control this outbreak, unfortunately, because there are still people who are resistant to receiving a vaccine,” said Tammy Camp, a pediatrician in Texas.
Despite the rising cases, the CDC reassured the public in a March 7 health advisory that the risk of a nationwide measles outbreak remains low.
Dr. Diego Hijano, an infectious disease specialist at St. Jude’s Children’s Research Hospital, echoed the CDC’s stance, emphasizing that high vaccination rates in many areas continue to offer strong protection.
Government Response and Efforts to Combat the Outbreak
Amid concerns over the growing measles outbreak, US Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. acknowledged the seriousness of the situation in Texas. He stated that the government is actively providing resources, including vaccines, to affected communities.
Health officials continue to urge the public to get vaccinated, as measles is a highly contagious disease that can lead to severe complications, especially in children and immunocompromised individuals.
For the latest updates and expert recommendations on measles outbreaks, visit the CDC’s official measles resource page.
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