The Texas Department of State Health Services (DSHS) has reported a measles outbreak in the South Plains region. Currently, 58 cases have been identified with symptom onset within the past three weeks. Among these, 13 patients required hospitalization. Notably, four of the affected individuals were vaccinated, while the rest are either unvaccinated or their vaccination status is unknown.

Due to measles' highly contagious nature, more cases are expected in Gaines County and nearby areas. DSHS is collaborating with South Plains Public Health District and Lubbock Public Health to investigate further.

The breakdown of cases by county shows Gaines County with 45 cases, Lubbock and Lynn each reporting one case, Terry with nine cases, and Yoakum reporting two cases.

In terms of age distribution among those affected: 15 are aged between 0-4 years, 33 between 5-17 years, six are adults over 18 years old, and four have pending age classification.

Health officials emphasize that immunization remains the most effective preventive measure against measles. The recommended protection involves two doses of the measles-mumps-rubella (MMR) vaccine.

Residents seeking vaccination can visit a facility at 704 Hobbs Highway in Seminole. For additional information for both the public and healthcare providers, resources are available online. Updates on new cases will be provided bi-weekly on Tuesdays and Fridays if necessary.