A measles outbreak continues to spread rapidly in West Texas and New Mexico, with over 250 confirmed cases, mostly affecting unvaccinated schoolchildren, according to The New York Times. Health officials have also identified two cases in Oklahoma linked to the outbreak, while isolated infections have been recorded in 20 other states, primarily connected to international travel.

The Texas Department of State Health Services reported on Tuesday that the state has recorded 223 cases since late January, with 29 hospitalizations. The outbreak resulted in its first fatality in Texas in late February, involving an unvaccinated young child. On Friday, the New Mexico Department of Health announced that a local resident had died after testing positive for measles. If confirmed, this would mark the second measles-related death in the United States in the current outbreak.

Low Vaccination Rates Fueling the Crisis

Health officials have attributed the outbreak to declining vaccination rates, particularly in Gaines County, Texas, where only 82% of kindergarteners have received the measles vaccine—well below the 95% threshold needed for herd immunity. The majority of cases involve unvaccinated children between the ages of 5 and 17.

The outbreak has been exacerbated by vaccine hesitancy, fueled by misinformation and disruptions in routine immunization efforts. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has warned that the outbreak could worsen in the coming months, particularly with increased travel during the spring and summer.

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A Highly Contagious Disease With Severe Risks

Measles is one of the most contagious airborne viruses, spreading through coughing, sneezing, and even lingering in the air for hours. Young children are at the highest risk for severe complications, including pneumonia, brain swelling, and death. The measles vaccine is 97% effective, offering near-total protection. However, unvaccinated individuals face an almost 100% risk of infection upon exposure.

Health experts are urging immediate action to boost vaccination rates and contain the outbreak before it spreads further. The CDC, state health departments, and local officials are working to increase immunization efforts, particularly in low-vaccination areas.