Measles Outbreak Hits West Texas Amid Low Vaccination Rates

Fifteen measles cases in school-aged children have emerged in Gaines County, Texas, an area with significant vaccine exemptions, prompting urgent public health measures. Local health officials, led by South Plains Public Health District Director Zach Holbrooks, first learned of the outbreak in late January when two initial cases were reported. The cases may be linked to private religious schools in the area, though investigations continue.

"I wouldn't say they're all connected, but our teams are looking into exposure sites and the background of those cases," Holbrooks said. To combat the spread, officials organized a drive-through vaccination clinic and are offering screenings. Texas allows vaccine exemptions for conscience reasons, leading to a rise from 0.76% in 2014 to 2.32% last year. Gaines County's exemption rate is significantly higher, with nearly 14% of children opting out in the 2023-24 school year.

Health officials highlight threats from declining vaccination rates post-COVID-19 pandemic, as measles outbreaks increase across the US; a recent one in Chicago affected over 60 people. Measles, a highly contagious virus, can infect 9 out of 10 unvaccinated individuals if exposed. (This story was generated by Newser's AI chatbot. Source: the AP)