Texas Faces Significant Measles Outbreak Amid Low Vaccination Rates
Texas is grappling with one of the largest measles outbreaks in the United States since the disease was declared eliminated in 2000. Public health officials are working tirelessly to mitigate the spread, but low vaccination rates in certain communities are exacerbating the challenge.
Low Vaccination Rates: A Key Concern
One notable example is Mercy Culture Preparatory Academy in Fort Worth, Texas, where only 14% of incoming kindergarteners were vaccinated against measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR) during the last school year. This is well below the 95% vaccination rate recommended by federal health agencies to prevent outbreaks. The school has stated that its vaccination rates reflect family choices rather than school policy, as Texas law allows exemptions for vaccinations.
Statewide, the MMR vaccination rate among kindergartners for the 2023-24 school year was 94.3%, slightly below the recommended threshold. However, nearly half of Texas school districts fall below this level, with some districts reporting rates as low as 90% or less.
Efforts to Contain the Outbreak
Public health departments in Texas, New Mexico, and Oklahoma have ramped up efforts to contain the outbreak. These measures include coordinating with schools, daycare centers, and hospitals, as well as offering free vaccinations at community clinics. In New Mexico, nearly 10,000 MMR vaccine doses were administered in the past six weeks, nearly double the number given during the same period last year.
In Tarrant County, where Mercy Culture Preparatory Academy is located, health officials are on high alert. Russ Jones, the chief epidemiologist for the county, noted that areas with low vaccination rates are particularly vulnerable. “If the outbreak crosses into these unvaccinated populations, we could see a significant number of cases,” he warned.
Misinformation and Vaccine Hesitancy
A major hurdle in combating the outbreak is the spread of misinformation about vaccines. Dr. Philip Huang, director of the Dallas County Health and Human Services Department, highlighted the role of social media in disseminating false information. “Incorrect information is just as readily available as correct information,” he said, adding that distrust in government and politicization of vaccines have further fueled hesitancy.
Terri Burke, executive director of the Immunization Partnership, emphasized the need for more resources to support public health efforts. “Health officials are stressed and stretched beyond belief,” she said during a recent briefing.
The Importance of MMR Vaccination
The MMR vaccine is highly effective, providing 97% protection against measles with two doses. The first dose is typically administered between 12-15 months of age, and the second between 4-6 years. Vaccination not only protects individuals but also contributes to herd immunity, which is essential for preventing outbreaks.
Dr. Sameer Vohra, director of the Illinois Department of Public Health, reiterated the importance of vaccination. “Being fully immunized remains the best and most effective way for everyone to protect themselves and those they love,” he said.
Global and National Trends
The measles outbreak in Texas is part of a larger trend of rising measles cases globally. In 2025, North and South America reported 11 times more cases than the previous year, with the U.S. confirming 935 cases across 30 states as of May 2. Canada and Mexico have also experienced significant outbreaks, highlighting the urgent need for increased vaccination efforts.
In the U.S., declining vaccination rates during the COVID-19 pandemic have contributed to the resurgence of measles. A 2022 study predicted that if vaccination rates do not improve, measles could become endemic again, with up to 11 million cases over the next 25 years.
Reversing the trend of declining vaccination rates will require a multifaceted approach. Public health experts recommend increasing access to free and accessible vaccinations, restoring public trust in vaccines, and addressing misinformation. Epidemiological models suggest that even a 5% increase in community vaccination rates could significantly reduce the number of future cases.
As Dr. Ana Montanez, a pediatrician in Lubbock, Texas, stated, “It’s very important for all of us to be the voice of truth and commitment to our families and children.” With continued efforts, public health officials remain hopeful that the current outbreak can be contained and future ones prevented.
Source: CNN, Texas Department of State Health Services, World Health Organization