Health officials in the state have reported 124 cases of measles so far. Health officials have reported the first death in the measles outbreak in West Texas. Details about the deceased, including their age and name, remain unknown. However, the majority of those stricken with the virus have been between the ages of five and 17 years old — or even younger.
The news comes as state authorities say they have identified 124 cases in the South Plains and Panhandle regions since late January. Of those cases, 18 of the patients have been hospitalized. And, only five people were vaccinated. The rest were either unvaccinated or had a vaccination status that is unknown.
“Due to the highly contagious nature of this disease, additional cases are likely to occur in the outbreak area and the surrounding communities. DSHS is working with local health departments to investigate the outbreak,” the Texas Department of State Health Services said in a Tuesday update.
