Texas reports nearly 330 measles cases, mostly unvaccinated

Measles cases are rising sharply in western Texas. Since January, nearly 330 people have been infected. Most of these cases involve individuals who are unvaccinated. The Texas Department of State Health Services reported 327 cases as of Tuesday. Among these, 40 patients have been hospitalized. Measles is a highly contagious virus that spreads easily through breathing, sneezing, and coughing. Vaccination is the most effective way to prevent measles. Public health data shows that 325 of the current cases are linked to unvaccinated individuals or those with an unknown vaccination status. This year has seen the highest number of measles cases in Texas since 1992. The majority of infections are in children, and an unvaccinated child tragically died from the outbreak last month. Health officials have faced challenges from misleading statements about vaccinations. The outbreak has also affected neighboring states. New Mexico has reported 43 cases, while Oklahoma has recorded nine cases so far.