Measles Outbreak in the U.S.: What You Need to Know and How to Stay Protected
As of February 2025, the U.S. is facing a significant measles outbreak, with Texas and New Mexico seeing the bulk of cases. According to the Texas Department of State Health Services, there have been over 120 confirmed cases since late January, with nearly 20 hospitalizations. Worryingly, while most cases are among unvaccinated individuals, a handful have been in people who were vaccinated—though their symptoms were notably milder.
This outbreak appears to have started in a tight-knit religious community in Gaines County, Texas, where vaccination rates are low. From there, it spread into neighboring areas of New Mexico, prompting health officials to set up mobile vaccination and testing clinics to contain the spread.
Why This Matters
Measles is no joke—it’s one of the most contagious viruses out there. If someone with measles coughs, sneezes, or even just breathes in a shared space, the virus can linger in the air for up to two hours. If you’re unvaccinated and walk into that space, there’s a 90% chance you’ll catch it.
Symptoms typically show up 7 to 14 days after exposure and start with:
- High fever
- Cough
- Runny nose
- Red, watery eyes
- A distinctive red rash that starts at the hairline and spreads downward
Serious complications can include pneumonia, brain swelling, and for vulnerable individuals—infants, pregnant people, and the immunocompromised—it can be fatal.
How to Protect Yourself
The best defense? Vaccination.
The CDC strongly recommends the Measles, Mumps, and Rubella (MMR) vaccine, which is 97% effective when given in two doses.
- Children: First dose at 12-15 months, second dose at 4-6 years
- Adults born before 1957: Likely immune due to natural exposure
- Adults born after 1957: At least one dose unless you have proof of immunity
- High-risk groups (college students, healthcare workers, international travelers, etc.): Should receive two doses, at least 28 days apart
Not sure if you were vaccinated? You can get a blood test to check your immunity, but honestly, if you’re in doubt, just get the shot—it won’t hurt, even if you’ve already been vaccinated before.
What About Vaccines from the 1960s?
If you were vaccinated in the early 1960s, check your records. The first measles vaccines (1963-1967) weren’t as effective, particularly the inactivated (killed) vaccine, which didn’t provide lasting immunity. If you received that version, you may need to be revaccinated with the current MMR vaccine.
Final Thoughts
While measles was declared eliminated in the U.S. in 2000, outbreaks like this remind us why vaccines matter. If you’re vaccinated, you’re well-protected. If you’re not—or if you’re unsure—it’s worth checking your status and updating your immunity. The last thing anyone needs is a disease we have the tools to prevent.
Allergies, Cold, or COVID-19? How to Accurately Identify Your Symptoms
Distinguishing between allergies, a common cold, and COVID-19 can be quite challenging due to overlapping symptoms. Understanding these differences is crucial for proper treatment and prevention. This guide will help you identify your symptoms accurately and provide tips on how to manage them effectively.
The COVID-19 pandemic has made it more important than ever to accurately identify respiratory symptoms. Whether it’s a seasonal allergy, a common cold, or COVID-19, knowing what you’re dealing with can help you take the right actions.
READ: Allergies, Cold, or COVID-19? How to Accurately Identify Your Symptoms
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