Texas Measles Outbreak Grows, Hits New Mexico

The measles outbreak in Texas has reached 90 confirmed cases, making it the largest in nearly 30 years. Originating in Gaines County, the outbreak has now spread to seven counties in Texas and has crossed into New Mexico. The majority of cases involve unvaccinated individuals or those with unknown vaccination status, with 16 people hospitalized. A 'close-knit, undervaccinated' Mennonite community is notably affected. Texas health officials are administering the MMR vaccine at local health clinics and pharmacies to curb the outbreak. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention stresses the importance of achieving herd immunity as low vaccination rates continue to challenge containment efforts.