The number of measles cases in Texas has increased to 159, up from 146 just a week ago. This surge comes after an unvaccinated child died from the disease, marking the first measles-related death in the U.S. since 2015. The child had no underlying health issues, according to the Texas Department of State Health Services.
Gaines County, the epicenter of the outbreak, now reports 107 cases, up from 98 last week. Hospitalizations have also risen, with 22 patients currently admitted, compared to 20 previously.
Due to the highly contagious nature of measles, health officials expect more cases in the outbreak area and surrounding communities. The disease is particularly concerning because it can lead to severe complications and death.
Of the 159 cases, 53 are children under the age of 5, and 74 are between 5 and 17 years old. Most cases involve unvaccinated individuals, with 80 confirmed as unvaccinated and five having received at least one dose of the measles vaccine. The vaccination status of 74 patients remains unknown.
The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention emphasizes that vaccines are the best protection against measles. Investigations are ongoing for cases where vaccination status is unclear or confirmed as vaccinated.
Read more:
- Texas Measles Outbreak: A Child’s Death Amidst Growing Health Concerns
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