More Texans Are Getting Measles Vaccinations, But Outbreak Continues

The Houston Chronicle (4/7, MacDonald) reports that more Texans have started “receiving the measles vaccine amid the outbreak that began in the South Plains region, but experts believe that more shots must be given to contain the crisis that has sickened hundreds and killed two children in Texas.” Data from the state’s Department of State Health Services indicate that more than 218,000 residents got the MMR vaccine during the first three months of 2025, a 16% year-over-year increase. Notably, the South Plains area “has seen a 60% rise this year compared to the same period in 2024.” However, many Texas communities are still below the “threshold of 95% vaccination coverage that is needed to achieve herd immunity.” The Dallas Morning News (4/7, Brindley) adds that health experts fear the Texas measles outbreak “could continue spreading and growing for months to come.”