Texas has reported 20 new confirmed cases of measles, marking a 4% rise since the last update. The total number of cases in the state now stands at 561. This outbreak has led to 58 hospitalizations, with two additional patients admitted since April 11. Tragically, two unvaccinated children have died from the disease since the outbreak began this year.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has documented 712 confirmed measles cases across 24 states in the U.S. Most of these cases involve individuals who were not vaccinated. The measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR) vaccine is known to be highly effective, with a 97% success rate after two doses.
In response to the outbreak, a group of scientific experts is gathering in Atlanta this week to discuss vaccine recommendations. The CDC’s Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices is also set to meet to review the situation.
Amid this public health crisis, U.S. Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. has raised concerns about the safety of the MMR vaccine, linking it to autism—a claim that has been widely discredited. His mixed messages about vaccines have alarmed health officials, who worry about the impact on public trust in vaccinations.
As the outbreak continues, health authorities stress the importance of vaccination to protect individuals and communities from measles, a highly contagious disease.