The Texas Department of State Health Services has announced a measles outbreak in the South Plains region of Texas. Currently, there are 48 confirmed cases with symptoms beginning within the past three weeks. Thirteen individuals have been hospitalized. All affected individuals are either unvaccinated or their vaccination status is unknown. Due to the contagious nature of measles, further cases are anticipated in Gaines County and neighboring areas.

DSHS is collaborating with South Plains Public Health District and Lubbock Public Health to investigate this outbreak. The breakdown of cases by county shows that Gaines County has reported 42 cases, Lynn County has one case, Terry County has three cases, and Yoakum County has two cases.

The age distribution of those infected includes 13 children aged 0-4 years, 29 individuals aged 5-17 years, five adults aged 18 years and older, and one individual whose age is unknown.

Health officials emphasize that vaccination remains the most effective prevention against measles. The recommended immunization involves two doses of the measles-mumps-rubella (MMR) vaccine, which is highly effective at preventing infection.

Residents in the South Plains can receive vaccinations at 704 Hobbs Highway in Seminole. Additional information for both the public and healthcare providers is available online.

Updates on new cases will be provided every Tuesday and Friday if necessary.