CDC Statement on Measles Outbreak in Texas | CDC Newsroom

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention is actively responding to a growing measles outbreak across the United States, with a recent focus on supporting efforts in Texas following a second measles-related death in the state. Secretary Kennedy recently visited Texas to discuss the situation with state health officials and has directed the deployment of an additional CDC response team to bolster local control measures. This action underscores the agency’s commitment to national health readiness and response, particularly as cases surge to levels far exceeding previous expectations.

Measles, a highly contagious viral illness, was declared eliminated in the U.S. In 2000. Yet, recent years have seen a resurgence, fueled by declining vaccination rates and the importation of cases from other countries. The virus spreads through the air when an infected person coughs or sneezes, and can remain infectious for up to four hours in an enclosed space. Symptoms typically begin with a fever, cough, runny nose, and red, watery eyes, followed by a rash that spreads from the head to the body. Although most people recover, measles can lead to serious complications, including pneumonia, encephalitis (brain swelling), and even death.

Current Outbreak Landscape

The CDC reports that measles cases are currently six times higher than anticipated for this point in the year, a concerning trend that prompted the agency’s increased involvement. WSOC TV reports this surge is significantly impacting public health resources.

South Carolina is similarly experiencing a growing outbreak and has requested reinforcements beyond the CDC to assist with containment efforts. Reuters details the state’s require for additional support to manage the increasing number of cases.

Understanding Measles and Vaccination

Measles is preventable through vaccination with the measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR) vaccine. The CDC recommends that children receive two doses of the MMR vaccine, with the first dose administered between 12 and 15 months of age, and the second dose between 4 and 6 years of age. Vaccination is highly effective, providing approximately 97% protection against the disease. However, even those who are vaccinated can, in rare cases, contract measles, though symptoms are typically milder.

The current outbreaks are largely attributed to communities with lower vaccination rates, often due to misinformation or concerns about vaccine safety. It’s important to note that the MMR vaccine has been extensively studied and is considered safe and effective by leading medical organizations worldwide, including the World Health Organization (WHO) and the CDC. The CDC’s measles webpage provides comprehensive information about the disease, vaccination, and current outbreak information.

Global Context and Ongoing Surveillance

The rise in measles cases is not limited to the United States. Globally, outbreaks are occurring in several countries, highlighting the interconnectedness of international travel and the importance of maintaining high vaccination coverage. The CDC’s information on global measles outbreaks emphasizes the need for continued vigilance and international collaboration.

The CDC maintains a robust surveillance system to track measles cases and identify outbreaks. This system relies on reports from state and local health departments, as well as laboratory confirmation of cases. Data collected through surveillance is used to inform public health interventions, such as vaccination campaigns and targeted outreach to communities with low vaccination rates.

What Comes Next

The CDC is continuing to work closely with state and local health departments to investigate cases, provide technical assistance, and implement control measures. This includes supporting vaccination efforts, conducting contact tracing to identify and monitor individuals who may have been exposed, and providing guidance on infection control practices. The agency is also actively monitoring the situation globally to assess the risk of imported cases and to inform its response strategy. Further updates and guidance will be issued as the situation evolves, and the CDC will continue to prioritize protecting the public from this preventable disease.