After nearly seven months and 762 confirmed cases, health officials have officially declared the Texas measles outbreak over - yet experts say vigilance remains crucial.
The Texas Department of State Health Services confirmed Monday that no new cases have been reported for 42 days - the equivalent of two full incubation periods for measles - meeting the standard threshold to call an outbreak finished.
The outbreak, the largest in Texas in more than 30 years, began in Gaines County, where low vaccination rates in close-knit communities helped fuel its spread across 37 counties, resulting in 99 hospitalizations and the deaths of two school-aged children.
DSHS Commissioner Dr. Jennifer Shuford praised public health responders, saying the end came thanks to intensive testing, vaccination campaigns, disease monitoring, and public education.
Still, the closure of this chapter comes amid concern about ongoing risks. Of the 762 infections, more than two-thirds were in children, and 94% were unvaccinated, underscoring the serious consequences of dropping vaccination rates.
Public health experts warn the United States - not just Texas - could face more frequent outbreaks unless vaccination coverage returns to the recommended 95% for herd immunity. They point to rising exemption rates and misinformation as key drivers of vulnerability.
While Texas may be breathing a temporary sigh of relief, the leadership from health professionals and parents going forward may be the difference between outbreaks being a thing of the past—or the start of a troubling new normal.
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