Child Dies in Texas Measles Outbreak Amid Growing Cases
Written by Site Hub on February 26, 2025
A school-age child in West Texas has died from measles, marking a tragic milestone in a growing outbreak that has sickened over 130 people across Texas and New Mexico. State and local health officials confirmed that the child was not vaccinated against the disease.
Rising Cases & Vaccination Concerns
Measles was declared eradicated in the U.S. in 2000 due to widespread vaccination.
In recent years, vaccination rates have declined, dropping below the CDC’s recommended 95% threshold to prevent outbreaks.
The Texas county at the center of the outbreak has a vaccination rate of just 80%, leaving many vulnerable.
Why Measles is Dangerous
Measles is one of the most contagious diseases in the world, spreading rapidly among unvaccinated populations. It can cause severe complications, including pneumonia, brain swelling, and death.
Public health officials urge parents to vaccinate their children with the MMR (Measles, Mumps, Rubella) vaccine to prevent further fatalities.
Source: NPR
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