The United States is facing a rising health crisis as two new measles cases in the Dallas-Fort Worth area, a metropolitan hub of nearly eight million residents, have been linked to a larger outbreak originating in West Texas.
Health officials confirmed one case in Collin County, which encompasses suburban areas like Plano and Frisco, and another in Rockwall County. Although patient details—such as vaccination status or whether they have infected others—remain undisclosed, the new cases have heightened fears of further transmission.
This development follows last week’s report of 1,000 measles cases nationwide this year, only the second time the U.S. has surpassed this threshold since the disease was declared eradicated in 2000. Health experts warn that if the outbreak continues unchecked, the country risks losing its measles elimination status.
Measles Exposure and Local Impact
Collin County officials issued a public alert regarding potential exposure in Plano between April 10 and 11 at various locations, including a Walmart and Dollar Tree store. In Rockwall County, authorities reported a measles case linked to recent travel to West Texas. The individual has since recovered and is no longer infectious.
Vaccination rates in these counties fall below the 95% threshold needed for herd immunity, with Collin County reporting a 93.3% vaccination rate among kindergarteners and Rockwall County falling below 92%.
Largest Outbreak Since 2019
The Texas outbreak has resulted in 717 reported measles cases since January, including the two fatalities of young children. This is now the largest U.S. outbreak since 2019, when 1,061 cases were recorded in New York due to international travel.
The outbreak has particularly alarmed public health officials because Dallas-Fort Worth serves as a major travel hub with daily flights to cities like New York, Los Angeles, and Chicago, increasing the risk of further spread.
National Response and Preventative Measures
Experts emphasize the urgent need to increase vaccination rates and public awareness. “Maintaining herd immunity is crucial to prevent widespread outbreaks,” said a spokesperson for the Texas Department of Health.
Health authorities urge residents to check their vaccination status and limit contact with individuals showing symptoms such as fever, rash, and cough. Measles remains one of the most infectious diseases, capable of causing severe complications, including pneumonia and encephalitis.
For more information on vaccination clinics in Texas or to report potential exposure, visit the Texas Department of Health’s website.