Mexico’s Ministry of Health has issued an urgent travel advisory for Texas, US warning citizens about a rapidly growing measles outbreak that has infected nearly 150 people and resulted in one death. Officials are urging travelers to ensure they are fully vaccinated before visiting the state to reduce the risk of infection.

Measles Cases Climb in Texas

The outbreak, which began in mid-February in West Texas, has led to 146 confirmed cases as of Friday, according to the Texas Department of State Health Services (DSHS). Tragically, an unvaccinated child in Lubbock succumbed to complications from the virus last week.

The majority of infections have been reported in Gaines County, with 98 cases. Other affected counties include:

• Terry County: 21 cases
• Dawson County: 8 cases
• Yoakum County: 6 cases
• Dallam County: 4 cases
• Martin County: 3 cases
• Lubbock, Lynn, and Ector Counties: 2 cases each

Among the infected, at least 79 individuals were unvaccinated, and minors account for most of the cases. Children under 18 make up 116 infections, with 46 cases in children under 5 and 70 cases in those aged 5-17.

Measles Symptoms and Vaccine Protection

Measles is a highly contagious virus that spreads through coughing, sneezing, and direct contact with respiratory droplets. Symptoms typically include:

• High fever
• Persistent cough
• Runny nose
• Red, watery eyes
• A blotchy red rash starting on the face
• Small white spots inside the mouth

The MMR vaccine (measles, mumps, rubella) provides strong protection against the virus, significantly reducing the risk of infection and severe complications. Health officials recommend that children as young as six months receive the vaccine before traveling to outbreak areas.

Mexico’s Ministry of Health has issued an urgent travel warning for Texas, US, due to a worsening measles outbreak that has infected nearly 150 people and caused one death. Travelers are urged to get vaccinated before visiting the state.

Advisory for Travelers

Mexican authorities are advising travelers heading to Texas to take the following precautions:

• Confirm vaccination status before departure, ensuring MMR immunization is up to date.
• Monitor for symptoms after visiting Texas and seek medical attention if any appear.
• Avoid close contact with individuals showing signs of measles, particularly in areas with known outbreaks.

Texas health officials continue to monitor the situation, urging vaccination efforts to curb the spread of the virus.

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