WORLD NEWS

Measles Outbreak in Texas: A recent measles outbreak in Lubbock, Texas, has led to the death of an unvaccinated child, prompting dozens of families to rush for vaccinations.

By Aniket Chakraborty

Feb 28, 2025

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Vaccine Hesitancy: The outbreak is concentrated in a Mennonite community with historically low vaccination rates, highlighting the risks of vaccine hesitancy.

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Fear Sparks Action: Parents like Mark Medina are getting their children vaccinated after the death, saying it "sparked fear" and motivated them to act.

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Highly Contagious Virus: Measles is one of the most contagious viruses, spreading rapidly through droplets from coughs, sneezes, or even breathing.

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Rising Cases: Over 130 measles cases have been reported in west Texas and New Mexico, mostly among unvaccinated children, with 20 hospitalizations.

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Declining Vaccination Rates: National immunization rates have dropped, with kindergarten vaccination coverage falling from 95.2% to 92.7%, leaving 280,000 children vulnerable.

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Herd Immunity at Risk: The CDC recommends a 95% vaccination rate for herd immunity, but misinformation has fueled declining rates.

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Community Response: The death in Lubbock has spurred increased vaccine demand, with some previously hesitant individuals now choosing to vaccinate.

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MMR Vaccine Effectiveness: The CDC confirms the MMR vaccine is 97% effective against measles with two doses, offering strong protection.

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Historical Context: Measles was declared eliminated in the US in 2000, but outbreaks persist annually, posing risks to unvaccinated individuals, including infants and those with weakened immune systems.

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