First Death Reported in Texas Measles Outbreak, Cases Rise to 124

 

# First Death Reported in Texas Measles Outbreak, Cases Rise to 124

A person has died in a Texas hospital due to complications from measles, marking the first fatality in an outbreak that began in late January in western Texas. The death was confirmed by the city of Lubbock's spokesperson, Lori Adams, who stated that the patient passed away on Wednesday, but did not disclose the individual's age.

# Rising Cases

According to the Texas Department of State Health Services, the number of measles cases in western Texas has increased to 124 across nine counties. Additionally, nine cases have been reported in eastern New Mexico. Covenant Children's Hospital in Lubbock did not immediately respond to a request for comment from the Associated Press.

# Measles Outbreak

Measles is a highly contagious virus that can remain airborne for up to two hours. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), up to 9 out of 10 unvaccinated individuals are susceptible to contracting the virus. Texas law allows children to be exempt from school vaccinations for reasons of conscience, including religious beliefs.

# Recent Outbreaks

The United States experienced a surge in measles cases in 2024, including an outbreak in Chicago that affected over 60 people.

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