Measles Cases Continues To Climb In Texas

The number of Texas measles cases has surpassed last year’s total number of cases nationwide. 30 new cases were confirmed in the Lone Star State on Friday, bringing the state’s total to 309. In 2024, the entire United States recorded 285 cases of measles. “Due to the highly contagious nature of this disease, additional cases are likely to occur in the outbreak area and the surrounding communities,” Texas state officials said. So far this year, 40 people have been hospitalized with measles and a six-year-old passed away after contracting the illness. The majority of cases involve people who have not received the MMR vaccine, which is 97% effective in guarding against measles, mumps, and rubella. (UPI)