Texas is battling its worst measles outbreak in nearly three decades, with 48 confirmed cases in West Texas . Most patients are unvaccinated children and teens, highlighting growing concerns about vaccine hesitancy in rural communities.
Community Impact
Health officials say the outbreak centers on a tight-knit Mennonite community where families often homeschool or attend small private schools. “It’s about personal choice, not church doctrine,” explained Texas health spokesperson Lara Anton. Thirteen hospitalizations have been reported so far.
Measles 101: Why It Matters
Measles spreads like wildfire – lingering in the air for two hours and infecting 90% of exposed, unvaccinated people. While U.S. cases dropped dramatically after the 1960s vaccine rollout, 2024 has seen flare-ups from Chicago to Texas.
Vaccine Push & Policy Gaps
Texas allows school vaccine exemptions for religious or personal reasons – with exemption rates tripling since 2014 . Health teams are now hosting screenings and educating schools to spot early symptoms like rashes and fevers.
Pro Tip: The CDC recommends two MMR vaccine doses for lifelong immunity. Got travel plans? Check your vaccination history ASAP!
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. Most patients are unvaccinated children and teens, highlighting growing concerns about vaccine hesitancy in rural communities.
Measles spreads like wildfire – lingering in the air for two hours and infecting 90% of exposed, unvaccinated people. While U.S. cases dropped dramatically after the 1960s vaccine rollout, 2024 has seen flare-ups from Chicago to Texas.
. Health teams are now hosting screenings and educating schools to spot early symptoms like rashes and fevers.
Pro Tip: The CDC recommends two MMR vaccine doses for lifelong immunity. Got travel plans? Check your vaccination history ASAP!
: What You Need to Know 
