A significant measles outbreak originating in Texas has become the largest in the U.S. since 2000, surpassing the 2019 New York City outbreak and spreading to multiple states. Low vaccination rates are a key concern.
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), a measles outbreak in Texas has become the most significant single outbreak in the United States since the illness was declared eradicated in 2000. This is particularly noteworthy because the outbreak occurred in Texas. The outbreak, which has moved to Oklahoma and New Mexico, has eclipsed the 697 cases reported in New York City in 2019, with over 750 cases confirmed.
Because Texas has reported over 700 cases and two fatalities since January, the state is responsible for the great majority of infections. During the summer months, when children are not in school but movement within the area continues, public health officials are concerned about the possibility of further spread of the disease.
Specialists believe that the intensity of the outbreak can be attributed to areas of Texas with poor vaccination rates, which are exacerbated by anti-vaccine attitudes. The vaccination rate of 95% that is required for herd immunity has proven to be challenging to achieve in many populations.
In the past, outbreaks have frequently been related to foreign travel; however, the current scenario is driven by local transmission among communities with low vaccination coverage, making it more difficult to anticipate future hotspots.
Officials in charge of public health continue to stress that vaccination is still the most effective method for preventing the spread of measles.
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