Here's the latest on the Texas Measles Outbreak and what you really need to know to keep your family safe and healthy. Are you prepared and know what to do?

While it’s been more than two decades since measles was declared eliminated in the U.S., the disease has made an alarming return. As of today, 607 cases and two deaths have been confirmed in 2025 across the country. A third death is still under investigation.

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A Texas-Sized Misunderstanding?

Let me share something personal. Recently, I had guests fly in from New York to visit my studio. As they were boarding their flight, airport officials warned them to be cautious, “Texas has a measles outbreak.” That statement hit me wrong. Because while yes, there are confirmed cases in Texas, it's not like the Lone Star State is overrun with measles.

In fact, only just under 700 people statewide have contracted the virus, and Texas has over 30 million residents. So calling it an “outbreak” across the whole state feels a bit misleading.

Most of the confirmed cases are centered in Far West Texas, right along the New Mexico border. That’s where this current flare-up began.

What’s Fueling the Outbreak?

Health officials believe that declining vaccination rates have opened the door for measles to return. Some reports suggest that the virus has spread in areas where migrant populations recently crossed the border, many of whom may not have had access to routine vaccinations.

Still, it’s important to remember that measles is incredibly contagious, it can live in the air for up to two hours, and that makes prevention and awareness vital, especially for families with young children.

What You Should Know About Measles

Dr. Jana Shaw from SUNY Upstate Medical University shared some key info:

• Symptoms include: fever, cough, runny nose, inflamed eyes, and a distinct rash.
• Measles is extremely contagious, 9 out of 10 non-immune people will catch it if exposed.
• It can lead to complications such as pneumonia, brain swelling, and even death in severe cases.
• The MMR vaccine is highly effective, with two doses giving 97% protection.
  Source: SciLine.org

What Should Texans Do?

If you're traveling to an area with confirmed cases, especially out west, ensure your MMR vaccinations are current. Children should receive their first dose between 12 to 15 months, and a second dose between 4 to 6 years old.

Adults who were vaccinated as children don’t typically need a booster unless they fall into high-risk groups. However, anyone unsure of their status should consult their doctor.

With Easter Weekend Approaching, Be Smart, Not Sorry

With Easter weekend right around the corner, families across Texas will be gathering, traveling, and celebrating together. That means even more opportunities for exposure, especially for infants too young to be vaccinated.

As a fellow Texan, I say this with heart: better to play it safe than sorry. Double-check your family's vaccine records, stay alert for symptoms, and if you're unsure whether you’ve been exposed or vaccinated, talk to your doctor. Let's protect one another, especially the most vulnerable among us.

Texas Pride Still Stands Strong

As a proud Texan, I want to make one thing clear: Texas is not drowning in measles. We are facing a public health challenge, just like other states, but we are far from being overwhelmed.

Let’s stay informed. Let’s stay calm. And most importantly, let’s take care of each other,  this Easter and beyond.