On February 26, The Texas Department of State Health Services (TDSHS) announced the first death caused by the West Texas measles outbreak. The fatality was an unvaccinated child, according to the announcement.
There have been 146 cases from late January-February 28, 2025, according to TDSHS. 20 of these patients are in the hospital. The majority of confirmed cases are children.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) posted a statement on the outbreak:
“CDC continues to be in close communication with Texas health authorities about the measles outbreak in West Texas, following the death of a child. HHS sends its deepest condolences to the family. HHS is providing technical assistance, laboratory support, vaccines, and therapeutic medication as needed to the Texas Department of State Health Services and New Mexico Department of Health, which are leading the responses to the outbreaks in their jurisdictions.
Measles outbreaks are occurring globally, particularly in Asia, which means that there is an increased likelihood of cases among unvaccinated travelers returning to the U.S., which we saw in the February 19 case of an Orange County, California resident returning from Asia. Vaccination remains the best defense against measles infection. Measles does not have a specific antiviral treatment. Supportive care, including vitamin A administration under the direction of a physician, may be appropriate.
HHS Secretary Kennedy has spoken directly to Governor Abbott, Commissioner of the Texas Department of State Health Services Dr. Jennifer A. Shuford, and other public health officials to express HHS' willingness to support local efforts in dealing with the outbreak.”
