Measles Outbreak in Texas Officially Declared Over
The measles outbreak in Texas has officially concluded, as announced by the Texas Department of Health Services (DSHS) in a press release on Monday. This was confirmed after no new cases were detected in previously affected counties.
Since the outbreak began in late January, Texas has recorded a total of 762 confirmed measles cases by August 18, with one of the first cases emerging in Gaines County, which reported 414 infections.
Interestingly, according to the CDC, the virus made its way to the U.S. in 2025, contributing to a nationwide total of 1,356 confirmed cases as of August 5. A significant number of those affected in Texas were school-age children. During this period, 99 individuals required hospitalization, and tragically, two children lost their lives.
DSHS Commissioner Jennifer A. Schuford acknowledged the tireless efforts of Texas public health experts in managing this highly contagious virus. She emphasized that their extensive response involved educational initiatives regarding measles, testing, vaccinations, and disease surveillance.
Ongoing Concerns About Measles
Even though the DSHS has declared the outbreak over, they caution that the risk of measles still exists, particularly with concurrent outbreaks in North America and beyond. The department encourages ongoing vigilance and testing for individuals exhibiting symptoms consistent with measles.
Measles is known to be extremely contagious, posing serious health risks to unvaccinated individuals. During this outbreak, one in five affected people required hospitalization, and complications could include pneumonia and, in exceptional cases, severe neurological outcomes or pregnancy complications.
To ensure widespread protection against measles, health experts strongly advocate for vaccination, specifically through the MMR (measles, mumps, and rubella) vaccine, which involves two doses.
A recent piece of advice from health professionals includes awareness of one’s environment and the recommendation to wear masks in areas where cases have been identified, along with maintaining proper hygiene practices.
