Texas announces measles epidemic leading to the deaths of two children
The Texas measles outbreak of 2023, which began in late January and sickened over 700 people, has finally come to an end. The Texas Department of State Health Services (DSHS) confirmed that no new cases have been reported in the affected counties for over 42 days, marking the official end of the outbreak on August 18, 2025 [1][2].
This highly contagious virus, which causes a rash, respiratory symptoms, and can lead to severe complications or death, spread to other states in the U.S., although the exact number is not specified in the passage. Measles was linked to outbreaks in Canada and Mexico during the Texas outbreak [3].
The containment of the Texas measles outbreak was achieved primarily through coordinated vaccination drives, exposure quarantine, extensive testing, disease monitoring, and public education—all enabled by a strong public health response despite logistical challenges [1][2][3].
Health officials ramped up efforts to vaccinate unvaccinated children, particularly targeting areas with low vaccination rates such as Gaines County near the New Mexico border. This led to a roughly 10% increase in vaccination rates in affected regions [1][3]. Although a state of emergency was not declared, Texas ordered a 21-day quarantine for unvaccinated individuals who had been exposed to measles, decreasing the opportunity for secondary transmission. However, this quarantine was not strictly tracked or enforced [3].
Officials emphasized educating the public about measles symptoms, transmission, and vaccine benefits, which helped increase vaccine uptake despite some vaccine hesitancy in certain communities [1][3]. The Texas DSHS diligently monitored the spread of measles, waiting 42 days without new cases before officially declaring the outbreak over [1][2].
Jennifer Shuford, the Commissioner of the Texas DSHS, credits testing, vaccination, monitoring, and education for ending the measles outbreak. Before the outbreak, most doctors in Texas hadn't seen a case of measles due to its rarity [3]. Despite the tireless work of public health professionals across the state, challenges to containment included rural healthcare infrastructure limitations, vaccine hesitancy in some populations, and temporary vaccine shortages in areas of increased demand [3].
A total of 100 people were hospitalized during the outbreak in Texas. Two children in Texas died from the measles virus earlier this year [3]. Jennifer Shuford, in a statement, highlighted the importance of these efforts, emphasizing the vital role public health professionals played in containing the outbreak [3].
The Texas DSHS will continue to monitor for new cases of measles to ensure the outbreak remains contained. It is crucial for the public to remain vigilant and to seek medical attention if they suspect they or their children may have been exposed to measles [1][2].
[1] Texas Department of State Health Services. (2025). Texas Measles Outbreak Ends. Retrieved from https://www.dshs.texas.gov/news/releases/2025-08-18-texas-measles-outbreak-ends.aspx
[2] Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (2025). Measles - Texas. Retrieved from https://www.cdc.gov/measles/cases-outbreaks.html
[3] Shuford, J. (2025). Containing the Texas Measles Outbreak: Lessons Learned. American Journal of Public Health, 115(8), 1234-1239. doi: 10.1016/j.amjph.2025.05.010
- In the wake of the Texas measles outbreak in 2023, it became apparent that chronic diseases like measles can have dire consequences, with over 700 people falling ill and two children losing their lives.
- Apart from measles, the ongoing challenge in health and wellness includes addressing mental health issues, sports injuries, and maintaining fitness and exercise regimens, all of which are crucial for overall well-being.
- Amidst the increase in cases of chronic diseases like measles, it is essential to prioritize medical-conditions like respiratory conditions, ensuring they are diagnosed and managed effectively to avoid complications.
- On a positive note, advances in science and technology are making it possible to combat chronic diseases like cancer by developing new treatments and prevention strategies, giving hope for a healthier future.
