Measles Outbreak in Texas

The Texas Department of State Health Services is reporting a measles outbreak in the South Plains and Panhandle regions of Texas. Measles is a highly contagious viral infection, which can cause life-threatening illness to anyone who is not vaccinated. Measles can be prevented with the measles-mumps-rubella (MMR) vaccine. DSHS is working with local health departments to investigate and respond to the outbreak.

Early symptoms (first few days):

• Moderate fever
• Cough
• Runny nose
• Red eyes
• Sore throat

Later symptoms (after a few days):

• Blue-white spots inside the mouth (Koplik spots)
• Red-brown rash that starts at the hairline and spreads down the body
• High fever (can go over 104°F)

How Measles Spreads:

• Through the air when an infected person coughs, sneezes or talks (the virus can live on surfaces or in the air for up to two hours).
• By touching contaminated surfaces and then touching the eyes, nose, or mouth.

How to Prevent Measles:

• The best way to prevent measles is to be vaccinated with two doses of a measles-containing vaccine. This is primarily administered as the MMR vaccine.
• The MMR vaccine protects against measles, mumps, and rubella.
• Two doses prevent more than 97% of measles infections.

Contact your doctor to schedule a vaccine.

Pharmacists can vaccinate children aged 13 and under with a prescription from their doctor. They can vaccinate children 14 and up without a prescription.

DSHS offers several low-cost programs for vaccination. Texas Vaccines for Children (TVFC) ensures all Texas children, regardless of parent's ability to pay, have access to recommended vaccines.

Use the map below to find a TVFC provider near you.

The Adult Safety Net (ASN) program provides low-cost vaccines to anyone aged 19 or older who does not have health insurance. Use the map below to find an ASN provider near you.