Measles, a highly contagious but stopped disease, is spreading to the rural west Texas, causing concern between health officials. Although the US is rare due to vaccination, it is visible in communities with low vaccination rates.

Last week, an unnatural child died of illness, and more than 150 cases have been reported. According to the Disease Control and Prevention Center (CDC), this is the first measles-related death in the US since 2015. The CDC has sent experts in Texas to investigate and control the outbreak.

Measles cases reported in America

Texas have the highest number of cases, but also infection in New Mexico, where nine people have been diagnosed. Health officials say that these cases are not directly related to the outbreak of Texas.

Measles cases have also been found in Alaska, California, Georgia, Kentaki, New Jersey, New York, Pennsylvania and Road Island.

The CDC defines outbreaks as three or more related cases. In 2025, three measles outbreaks have been recorded in the US, mainly due to bringing passengers viruses from other countries and spreading it to untouched communities.

What is measles and how does it spread?

Measles is a virus that an infected person spreads easily through the air when coughing or sneezing. It can rotate in the air and on the surfaces for two hours, allowing it to be highly contagious.

Symptoms usually appear 7–14 days after infection. They begin with fever, cough, flowing nose and red, water eyes. A few days later, a red rash appears, which starts on the face and spreads to the rest of the body. Measles can lead to serious complications such as pneumonia, brain inflammation and dehydration, especially in weak people.

Who is the highest risk? Young children, pregnant women, and people with weak immune systems are at risk of serious illness from measles. People who are without thinking are the weakest for infection.

Although the measles in the US was abolished in the US due to vaccines in 2000, low vaccination rates in some areas have given rise to new outbreaks.

How to be safe

The best way to stop measles is to vaccinate. The CDC recommends two doses of measles, kanthamala, and rubella (MMR) vaccine-another for children aged 12–15 months and another for children aged 4-6.

Adults who are uncertain should get a blood test or booster shot if they are vaccinated. In outbreak areas, health officials may recommend additional vaccination to prevent spread.

In addition to vaccination, often hand washing and avoiding contact with infected people can help reduce risk.

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