Despite some hopeful signs, measles continues to spread across the U.S., with the country approaching 1,200 confirmed cases this year. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), the national tally hit 1,197 as of Friday. But there was a silver lining: health officials in Ohio declared three outbreaks in two counties officially over.

Measles Remains a Serious Threat

Measles is a highly contagious airborne virus that spreads when an infected person coughs, sneezes, or even breathes. Although preventable with the MMR (measles, mumps, and rubella) vaccine, the disease is making a comeback in areas with low vaccination rates.

Since January, outbreaks have erupted in at least nine U.S. states, with three confirmed deaths — two children in Texas and one adult in New Mexico. All were unvaccinated.

Where Are the Outbreaks Happening?

Here’s a breakdown of current measles activity by state:

Texas

Texas has been hit hardest, with 744 cases across 35 counties — most in West Texas. Gaines County alone has seen 411 cases in a largely undervaccinated Mennonite community. Two children have died, including an 8-year-old in April and a 6-year-old in February. State officials estimate fewer than 10 current cases are actively infectious.

New Mexico

The state has reported 81 total cases, with seven hospitalizations and one death — an unvaccinated adult who did not seek care. Most cases are in Lea County, with smaller numbers in several others.

Oklahoma

Oklahoma has 16 confirmed and three probable cases. The state hasn’t released details about which counties are affected.

Arizona

Arizona has four confirmed cases in Navajo County, all linked to recent international travel. None of the individuals were vaccinated.

Colorado

Colorado has seen 14 cases this year, including an eight-case outbreak tied to a Turkish Airlines flight that landed in Denver in May. Cases have been reported in Arapahoe, El Paso, and Denver counties, among others.

Illinois

Illinois confirmed an eight-case outbreak in the far southern part of the state. Two additional, unrelated cases were found in Cook County.

Kansas

Kansas has recorded 76 cases across 11 counties, mainly in the southwest. Three people have been hospitalized.

Montana

Montana reported its first measles cases in 35 years, with 20 confirmed. Gallatin County is the main hotspot, but other cases are spread across four counties.

North Dakota

North Dakota now has 34 cases, its first since 2011. The largest clusters are in Williams, Grand Forks, and Cass counties. All patients were unvaccinated.

Other U.S. states reporting sporadic cases this year include:
Alaska, Arkansas, California, Florida, Georgia, Hawaii, Indiana, Iowa, Kentucky, Louisiana, Maryland, Michigan, Minnesota, Missouri, Nebraska, New Jersey, New York, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, South Dakota, Vermont, Virginia, and Washington.

Canada and Mexico Also Battling Outbreaks

The measles problem isn’t limited to the U.S.

• Ontario, Canada is seeing its longest-running outbreak, with 2,083 cases and one infant death reported as of June 10.
• Alberta has recorded 868 cases.
• Mexico’s Chihuahua state has reported 2,179 cases and four deaths.

How Is Measles Spreading?

Most U.S. outbreaks begin with someone infected abroad who brings the virus back to a community with low vaccination coverage. According to the CDC, imported cases have more than doubled compared to the same time last year — largely from unvaccinated Americans returning home.

In 2019, the U.S. came dangerously close to losing its “measles elimination” status due to a surge in cases.

What to Know About the MMR Vaccine

The MMR vaccine is safe, effective, and the best defense against measles. Children should receive:

• The first dose between 12 and 15 months
• A second dose between 4 and 6 years old

Adults who are unsure of their immunity can safely receive another dose. Those vaccinated before 1968 with a “killed” virus version of the vaccine should get revaccinated. People born before 1957 likely have natural immunity.

High community vaccination rates — ideally above 95% — help create “herd immunity,” protecting even those who can’t be vaccinated. Unfortunately, U.S. childhood vaccination rates have dropped since the pandemic, with more parents claiming personal or religious exemptions.

What Are the Symptoms of Measles?

Measles starts like a bad cold:

• High fever
• Cough
• Runny nose
• Red, watery eyes

Three to five days later, a rash appears — starting on the face and spreading down the body. The fever can spike over 104°F during this time.

While most kids recover, complications like pneumonia, blindness, brain inflammation, or even death can occur — especially in young children and unvaccinated individuals.

Is There a Cure?

There’s no direct treatment for measles. Medical care focuses on relieving symptoms, staying hydrated, and preventing complications.

Source: AP News – US measles count nears 1,200 cases as Ohio officials confirm 3 outbreaks are over

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Health officials in New Jersey are urging anyone who attended last week’s Shakira concert at MetLife Stadium to watch for measles symptoms. This comes after it was confirmed that an infectious person was present at the event.

While there’s no confirmed measles outbreak in New Jersey, the U.S. and parts of North America are seeing a rise in cases this year — including hundreds of infections in West Texas. This surge comes as vaccination rates, which protect 97% of people after two doses, have been dropping.

Measles outbreaks are especially common in places like schools and daycares. For example, three public schools in western North Dakota recently sent all unvaccinated students home for 21 days after exposure, following state law.

Here’s a simple guide to understanding measles and how you can protect yourself and your loved ones.

What’s Going On with Measles in the U.S.?

Most children in the U.S. get vaccinated before starting school, but more people are skipping shots for personal or religious reasons. This has caused outbreaks across 30 states so far this year, with over 1,000 cases and 11 states reporting outbreaks (three or more linked cases).

The largest outbreaks are in Texas, New Mexico, and Oklahoma. Canada and Mexico are also seeing significant increases.

What Is Measles?

Measles is a highly contagious respiratory virus that spreads through the air when an infected person coughs, sneezes, or even breathes. It mainly affects children but can infect anyone.

“On average, one infected person may pass measles to about 15 others,” says Scott Weaver, a virus expert. “Very few viruses spread this easily.”

Symptoms start in the respiratory tract and then spread throughout the body. Early signs include a high fever, runny nose, cough, and red, watery eyes. A distinctive red rash appears a few days later, starting on the face and spreading downward. When the rash shows up, the fever can spike above 104°F.

There’s no specific cure for measles, so treatment focuses on easing symptoms and preventing complications.

Can Measles Be Deadly?

While most people recover, measles can be serious, especially for unvaccinated individuals. About 1 in 5 unvaccinated Americans with measles end up hospitalized. Complications include ear infections, diarrhea, pneumonia, and, rarely, swelling of the brain (encephalitis), which can cause lasting damage.

Pregnant women without immunity risk premature birth or low birth weight babies.

“Children are most vulnerable to severe illness,” says Weaver. Pneumonia is the leading cause of measles-related deaths.

How Can You Protect Yourself?

The best protection is the MMR vaccine (measles, mumps, and rubella). The first dose is recommended at 12-15 months old, and the second between 4-6 years old.

Before the vaccine was developed in the 1960s, nearly everyone caught measles. The vaccine is safe, effective, and has decades of proven success.

“We could stop outbreaks if 95% of the population were vaccinated,” Weaver explains. “Unfortunately, many areas have fallen below this crucial threshold.”

Vaccination rates have dropped since the COVID-19 pandemic, putting communities at higher risk.

Do You Need a Booster Shot?

Generally, people who got both MMR doses are protected for life. Testing for immunity is possible, and a booster may be recommended if antibody levels are low or if you are in an outbreak area.

Adults who received a live vaccine in the 1960s don’t need revaccination. But those who got an earlier, less effective killed-virus vaccine before 1968 should get at least one MMR dose now.

People who had measles before or were born before 1957 usually have immunity and don’t require vaccination.

If you have underlying health issues or live with someone at risk, talk to your doctor about whether a booster shot is a good idea.

Bottom Line:

Measles spreads fast but is preventable. Staying up to date with the MMR vaccine is the safest way to protect yourself, your family, and your community.

If you attended the Shakira concert or have concerns about exposure, monitor symptoms closely and consult your healthcare provider.

Stay informed. Stay safe.

Source: AP News – Measles is very contagious. Here’s how to avoid it

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The Battle Against Measles: Then and Now

Six years ago, the United States faced its worst measles outbreaks in decades. Two communities in New York—Brooklyn and Rockland County—were at the center of this crisis, bringing the country dangerously close to losing its measles elimination status, which had been achieved in 2000.

Today, similar outbreaks are unfolding in West Texas and New Mexico, prompting urgent action. Testing sites and vaccine clinics have been set up, and the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has stepped in to assist. However, local health officials warn that the spread could continue for months.

A Coordinated Response in 2019

The 2019 measles outbreaks in New York were met with swift and sustained public health efforts. These responses were tailored to the affected communities, combining direct engagement with formal policy changes. Experts emphasize that this comprehensive approach is crucial for containing current and future outbreaks.

The Power of Vaccination

The outbreaks in New York were concentrated in Orthodox Jewish communities that had been exposed to years of anti-vaccine disinformation. Public health officials focused on building trust within these communities to encourage vaccinations—the most effective tool against measles.

“Vaccination is the most important way to prevent the devastating disease that measles can be,” said Dr. Neil Vora, executive director of Preventing Pandemics at the Source.

The measles vaccine is highly effective—two doses provide 97% protection—and long-lasting. Because measles is extremely contagious, a 95% vaccination rate is needed to prevent outbreaks.

During the 2019 outbreak, more than 200,000 doses were administered in New York City and 30,000 in Rockland County, significantly boosting immunization rates. However, overcoming vaccine hesitancy took time.

Dr. Oxiris Barbot, former New York City health commissioner, noted that the persistence of disinformation made it difficult to achieve rapid vaccination rates. “That’s why it’s so important to rely on trusted messengers,” she emphasized.

New York City’s strong vaccine registry played a key role in identifying at-risk individuals and streamlining vaccination efforts. Other regions facing outbreaks may struggle due to limited resources.

Reaching Communities One Household at a Time

Public health workers took an individualized approach, going door-to-door and answering vaccination concerns directly. In some cases, people were vaccinated discreetly to avoid social backlash.

This hands-on effort helped curb the outbreak. A retrospective study found that New York City’s vaccination campaigns prevented a much larger crisis—potentially 8,100 cases instead of the reported 649.

The Danger of Misinformation and Community Transmission

While increasing vaccination rates was crucial, other factors also played a role. Some community-organized “measles parties,” intended to spread the virus deliberately, accelerated transmission. Infants were particularly vulnerable, as they were too young to be vaccinated.

By late 2018, more than half of infants in affected communities were susceptible to measles, along with a quarter of children aged 1-4. Although vaccination campaigns initially slowed the outbreak, by early 2019, transmission rates spiked, likely due to increased close-contact exposure among children.

Policy and Emergency Declarations

In April 2019, New York City and Rockland County declared a state of emergency. These declarations provided essential resources for outbreak control and reinforced public health mandates.

However, formal policies were only part of the solution. Trusted community leaders played a critical role in dispelling misinformation and encouraging vaccination. Dr. Blima Marcus, a nurse practitioner and member of the Orthodox Jewish community, developed culturally tailored informational materials, reaching thousands of households.

“The only thing that can truly help is when a community mobilizes from within,” Marcus said. “Knocking on doors—literally and figuratively—helps change the narrative.”

Comparing Past and Present Outbreaks

By the time the 2019 outbreaks ended, Rockland County had reported 312 cases and New York City 649. Fortunately, no deaths occurred.

The current outbreaks in Texas and New Mexico, however, have already resulted in nearly 230 cases and two deaths. Much of the spread is occurring within a Mennonite community, which, like the Orthodox Jewish communities in New York, faces vaccine hesitancy challenges.

Marcus stressed that cultural competence is key to public health outreach. “People resist being told what to do by outsiders who don’t understand their beliefs,” she explained.

Looking Forward

The lessons from the 2019 outbreaks highlight the need for proactive, community-centered strategies. Vaccination remains the strongest defense against measles, but public health efforts must also address misinformation and cultural concerns.

As the current outbreaks evolve, an all-hands-on-deck approach—combining medical expertise, community engagement, and policy support—will be essential to containing the spread and protecting vulnerable populations.

Source

The post How the U.S. Fought Measles Before—And What It Means for Today appeared first on Journos News - Breaking News, World News, Top Stories, Todays Headlines and Flash Reports.

Outbreak in West Texas Claims Life of Unvaccinated Child

An unvaccinated child in rural West Texas has died from measles, marking the first measles-related death in the U.S. since 2015, according to state health officials. The school-aged child, whose identity remains undisclosed, passed away on Tuesday night after being hospitalized at Covenant Children’s Hospital in Lubbock.

The tragic death comes amid the largest measles outbreak in Texas in nearly 30 years, with 124 confirmed cases across nine counties since the outbreak began in January 2024.

What We Know About the Outbreak

• Location: Rural towns in West Texas, especially Gaines County
• Total Cases: 124 across 9 counties
• Hospitalizations: Over 20 patients admitted to Covenant Children’s Hospital
• Affected Group: Predominantly unvaccinated Mennonite communities
• Symptoms: Respiratory issues, pneumonia, and some requiring intubation or oxygen support

Dr. Amy Thompson, CEO of Covenant Health, called the child’s death a “serious consequence” of the outbreak, urging communities to prioritize vaccination efforts.

How the Virus Is Spreading

Measles cases are concentrated in undervaccinated communities with low immunization rates. Gaines County, the hardest-hit area, has one of Texas’ highest rates of vaccine exemptions, with nearly 14% of school-aged children skipping at least one required vaccine last year.

The highly contagious virus spreads through coughing, sneezing, or breathing the same air and can linger in the air for up to two hours after an infected person leaves the area.

Federal Response and Controversy

U.S. health officials, including Robert F. Kennedy Jr., are monitoring the outbreak. However, Kennedy’s comments downplaying the outbreak and claiming hospitalized patients were only in “quarantine” were quickly refuted by doctors on the ground.

“We don’t hospitalize patients for quarantine purposes,” said Dr. Lara Johnson, Chief Medical Officer at Covenant.

The CDC is providing vaccines, technical support, and laboratory assistance, while Texas health officials are leading the containment efforts.

Measles Symptoms and Risks

Measles often begins with:

• High fever
• Cough
• Runny nose
• Red, watery eyes
• Rash starting on the face and spreading across the body

While most people recover, measles can lead to serious complications like:

• Pneumonia
• Brain swelling
• Blindness
• Death

How to Protect Yourself and Your Family

The Measles, Mumps, and Rubella (MMR) vaccine is safe, effective, and highly recommended to prevent infection. The CDC advises:

• First Dose: 12-15 months
• Second Dose: 4-6 years

Despite the vaccine’s effectiveness, vaccination rates have dropped nationwide since the COVID-19 pandemic, putting communities at higher risk of outbreaks.

Why Is This Outbreak Happening Now?

Public health officials warn that declining vaccination rates—combined with vaccine misinformation—are creating dangerous gaps in herd immunity. Most states are now below the 95% vaccination threshold needed to prevent outbreaks.

The U.S. declared measles eliminated in 2000, but cases have been rising since 2024, including a major outbreak in Chicago with over 60 infections.

What’s Next for Texas and the U.S.?

Texas Governor Greg Abbott’s office confirmed that vaccination teams have been deployed to affected areas. Health officials are urging families to:

• Get vaccinated
• Isolate infected individuals
• Report symptoms to healthcare providers

Meanwhile, the CDC is expected to provide weekly updates on the outbreak as the situation develops.

Bottom Line

The Texas measles outbreak serves as a stark reminder of the importance of vaccination. With cases rising and vaccine misinformation spreading, health officials are urging communities to protect themselves and their families.

Vaccines are safe, effective, and life-saving—and this tragic death could have been prevented.

Key Facts at a Glance

How You Can Help

Get vaccinated
Encourage friends and family to vaccinate
Stay informed through official health channels

Final Thoughts

The resurgence of measles in Texas highlights the critical role of vaccines in preventing once-eliminated diseases. While health officials work to contain the outbreak, communities must come together to prioritize immunization efforts and stop the spread of preventable illnesses.

Source

The post Texas Reports First Measles Death in a Decade Amid Outbreak appeared first on Journos News - Breaking News, World News, Top Stories, Todays Headlines and Flash Reports.

The measles outbreak in Gaines County, Texas, has doubled in size, reaching 48 confirmed cases, according to the Texas Department of State Health Services (DSHS) on Friday. The outbreak, first identified in late January, has been steadily growing.

Rising Case Numbers Across Counties

• Gaines County: 42 cases (the epicenter of the outbreak).
• Terry County: 3 cases.
• Yoakum County: 2 cases.
• Lynn County: 1 case.

Health officials warn that more cases are expected due to the highly contagious nature of measles.

Who is Affected?

• All cases involve unvaccinated individuals or those with unknown vaccination status.
• Most infections are in children aged 5 to 17 years.
• Symptoms appeared within the last three weeks.
• Hospitalizations: 13 patients have required hospital care.

Measles Spreading Beyond Texas

The outbreak has crossed state lines into Lea County, New Mexico, where three cases have been confirmed this week.

• The first case involved an unvaccinated teenager.
• The vaccination status of the other two cases remains unknown.
• Health officials suspect the New Mexico cases are linked to the Texas outbreak.

What is Measles?

Measles is a highly contagious airborne disease that spreads through coughing and sneezing. Symptoms include:
Fever
Cough
Red eyes
Rash

In severe cases, measles can lead to blindness, pneumonia, or encephalitis (brain swelling). It can also be fatal.

Low Vaccination Rates in Gaines County

• Nearly 1 in 5 kindergarteners (18%) in Gaines County did not receive the MMR vaccine in the 2023-24 school year.
• This is one of the highest vaccine exemption rates in Texas, increasing the risk of outbreaks.

Efforts to Control the Outbreak

The Texas health department is collaborating with:

• South Plains Public Health District
• Lubbock Public Health

Free Vaccination Clinics

Texas:

• 80+ people have received free MMR vaccinations at clinics in Gaines County.
• Clinics are now open 7 days a week.

New Mexico:

• Free vaccines available at public health clinics in Lea County for the next two weeks.

Measles on the Rise in the U.S.

• 285 cases were reported nationwide in 2023, the highest since 2019.
• Measles cases in 2024: Reported in Texas, Alaska, New Mexico, Georgia, Rhode Island, and New York City.
• U.S. vaccination rates falling:
  • A record 125,000 kindergarteners lacked at least one required vaccine last year.
  • The U.S. goal is 95% MMR vaccine coverage in kindergarteners, but the country has missed this target for four years in a row.

Takeaway

With low vaccination rates and rising cases, health officials urge immediate vaccination to prevent further spread of this highly contagious and potentially deadly disease.

Get vaccinated. Protect yourself. Stop the spread.

Source

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