Daijiworld Media Network - Washington

Washington, Mar 22: The measles outbreak in western Texas has escalated, with the total number of cases reaching 309, according to fresh data released on Friday. In just three days, 30 new cases have been recorded, surpassing the total US measles cases reported in 2024, which stood at 285.

The Texas Department of State Health Services (DSHS) confirmed that 40 patients have been hospitalized, and tragically, one school-aged child succumbed to the disease. The child, who was unvaccinated and had no underlying conditions, marks the first measles-related death in the US in a decade, as per the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).

Health officials fear that the outbreak could further spread due to the highly contagious nature of measles. Gaines County, the epicenter, has reported 211 cases so far. Authorities are working closely with local health departments to contain the outbreak.

Measles cases rising across the US in 2025

As of March 20, the CDC has reported a total of 378 measles cases across 18 states and jurisdictions, including Texas, New York, California, and Florida. A significant 95% of infections have been recorded in unvaccinated individuals or those with unknown vaccination status.

Hospitalizations are also a growing concern, with 64 patients requiring medical care most of them children under five. CDC data shows that 42% of cases are in children aged 5-19, while 33% involve children younger than five.

Two measles-related deaths have been recorded this year, with one confirmed and another under investigation. Experts emphasize that the most effective protection against measles is the MMR vaccine, which offers strong immunity when both doses are administered.