A measles outbreak spreading across Texas and New Mexico has now infected over 370 people, with 327 cases in Texas and 43 in New Mexico as of March 25, 2025. Tragically, both states have reported at least one fatality linked to the outbreak (Reuters).
Public health officials warn that nearly all affected individuals were unvaccinated or had an unknown vaccination status (Houston Chronicle). While measles was declared eliminated in the U.S. in 2000, outbreaks have resurged in recent years, largely due to declining vaccination rates. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention states that a 95% vaccination rate is needed to maintain herd immunity, but some communities in Texas and New Mexico have fallen below this threshold (CDC).
This outbreak highlights an important economic concept: negative externalities—costs imposed on society by individual decisions. When people choose not to vaccinate, they don’t just put themselves at risk; they contribute to the spread of disease, increasing healthcare costs, lost productivity, and avoidable deaths. With measles being one of the most contagious viruses in the world, even small declines in vaccination rates can lead to widespread consequences (WHO).
While health officials work to contain the outbreak, this serves as yet another reminder that vaccination isn’t just a personal choice—it’s a public responsibility. If you or your family members haven’t received the MMR vaccine, now is the time to check your records and schedule an appointment.
1 comment:
This measles outbreak in Texas and New Mexico is truly alarming and serves as a stark reminder of the critical role vaccines play in public health. It’s heartbreaking to see preventable illnesses making a comeback, especially when they can have such devastating consequences. The fact that nearly all affected individuals were unvaccinated or had an unknown vaccination status underscores the urgency of maintaining high immunization rates.When people forgo vaccination, it doesn’t just affect them—it strains healthcare systems, disrupts communities, and puts vulnerable populations at risk
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