A second child in Texas has died from measles, marking another devastating milestone in a fast-growing outbreak that has already infected nearly 500 people across the state in 2025.
The school-aged girl died at University Medical Center Children’s Hospital in Lubbock while receiving treatment for virus complications. According to the hospital, the child was unvaccinated and had no prior health conditions.
“This unfortunate event underscores the importance of vaccination,” the hospital stated.
Outbreak Spreads Rapidly
Since January, 481 measles cases have been confirmed in Texas, a 14% increase from the week prior. Six infants and toddlers at a Lubbock daycare center tested positive in recent weeks, contributing to 56 hospitalizations in the area alone.
Another suspected measles death has been reported in New Mexico, possibly linked to the Texas outbreak.
This outbreak is the worst the U.S. has seen in over a decade, with a national total of 628 cases across 21 states and Washington, D.C., according to NBC News.
Calls for Vaccination Intensify
HHS Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. traveled to Gaines County, the outbreak’s epicenter, to meet with affected families and Texas Gov. Greg Abbott. Kennedy emphasized that the MMR vaccine remains the most effective tool to stop the spread.
“The most effective way to prevent the spread of measles is the MMR vaccine,” Kennedy posted on X.
Why Vaccination Matters
According to the CDC:
- 1 to 3 out of every 1,000 children with measles may die from complications.
- 1 in 20 develop pneumonia, the leading cause of measles-related death in young children.
- Measles can also cause immune amnesia, erasing the body’s immunity to other infections.
Two doses of the MMR vaccine are 97% effective at preventing measles.
- First dose: 12 to 18 months old
- Second dose: Age 4 to 6
During outbreaks, babies as young as 6 months can receive their first shot.
Public Health Officials Urge Action
Health leaders warn the outbreak may be underreported, as many individuals aren’t getting tested.
Katherine Wells, Lubbock’s public health director, said, “We need to increase vaccination coverage immediately to protect vulnerable children.”
Source: NBC News
