The majority of the 146 cases in Texas are infants, children, and teenagers. The West Texas measles outbreak grew again on Friday, with state health officials now reporting 146 cases of the infectious virus. Hospitalizations were up by two, rising from 18 to 20.
![[A map of the U.S. shows states with measles cases across the U.S. Kentucky reported its first case this week]](https://static.independent.co.uk/2025/02/28/19/48/MAP.jpeg)
There has been only one death associated with the outbreak: the first in the nation since 2015. Measles, which can survive in the air for up to two hours, can cause serious illness and death. “Due to the highly contagious nature of this disease, additional cases are likely to occur in the outbreak area and the surrounding communities,” the Texas Department of State Health Services said.
While the majority of the cases - nearly 100 - have been reported in Gaines County, health authorities have sounded the alarm about potential exposures in San Marcos and San Antonio over Valentine’s Day weekend. In addition to concerns about the nation’s response on a federal level, the actions of state government have come into question.
“Everybody is so sensitive to the vaccine topic due to COVID,” Ector County Judge Dustin Fawcett told the publication. “We need to be very careful about how we address this topic … Our job is to provide the resources, not to tell people what they need to do.”.
Kentucky reported its own case in an adult resident who recently traveled internationally. “Measles is one of the most contagious viruses in the world,” Commissioner Dr. Steven Stack said. “Fortunately, measles can be prevented with the measles, mumps and rubella (MMR) vaccine, which is safe and effective. Vaccines are an essential tool to keep children and adults safe and healthy.”.
