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As a secretary of the US Ministry of Health and Human Services, I am deeply concerned Recent measles epidemic. This situation quickly escalated, and the Texas Department of State Health Service (DSHS) reported 146 confirmed cases since late January 2025, primarily in the South Plains region. It is tragic that this epidemic has taken away the life of a school child, the first death spruce in the United States in more than a decade.
Not only does vaccines protect individual children from measles, but also contribute to the community immunity, protecting those who are not able to be vaccinated for medical reasons.
They have been outlined by very infectious respiratory diseases with certain health risks, especially unreated individuals. The virus spreads by direct contact with infectious droplets when an infected person breathes, coughs or sneeze. Early symptoms include high fever, cough, runny nose and red, watery eyes, followed by a characteristic rash for the body. Most cases are mild, but rare complications can be strong, including pneumonia, blindness and encephalitis. Before introducing a vaccine in the 1960s, almost every child in the United States contracted measles. For example, in the United States, from 1953 to 1962, they were on average 530.217 Confirmed cases and 440 deathsmortality rate of 1 in 1,205 cases.
The cases of measles still spread to several countries after the child’s death
The current epidemic of Texas mostly influenced children, and 116 of 146 cases occurred in people under the age of 18. DSHS reports that 79 confirmed cases included individuals who did not receive the vaccine against measles, mumps and rubella (MMR), while 62 cases had an unknown vaccine status. At least five received the MMR vaccine.
Human crowd that surrounds a vaccine bottle against measles on a purple background. Horizontal composition with copy space. (East)
In response to this epidemic, I directed the centers for the control and prevention of the disease (CDC) and the administration for strategic willingness and response (ASPR) to work closely with the Texas health authorities to provide comprehensive support. HHS efforts include the offer of technical assistance, laboratory support, vaccines and therapeutic drugs as needed. CDC is in continuous communication with Texas health officers, providing a coordinated and effective response to contain an outbreak. I spoke with Vlado Greg Abbott and health officers from Texas, binding to provide them with any additional support they need to bring this epidemic to an end. I also talked to the bereaved parents of the late child to offer comfort.
First Death of measles reported in Western Texas in the middle of a growing epidemic
As health service providers, community leaders and policy creators, we have a common responsibility for public health protection. This includes the insurance that accurate information on the safety and efficiency of the vaccine is spread. We need to collaborate with communities to understand their concerns, provide culturally competent education and make vaccines easily accessible to everyone who wants them.
It is also our responsibility to provide up -to -date guidelines on available therapeutic drugs. Although no antivirus approved for those who may be infected, CDC have recently updated their recommendation Supporting vitamin A under the supervision of a doctor for those with a mild, moderate and severe infection. Studies have establish This vitamin A can dramatically reduce the mortality of measles.
Parents play a major role in protecting their children’s health. All parents should consult their health care providers to understand their options for obtaining MMR vaccines. The vaccination decision is personal. Not only does vaccines protect individual children from measles, but also contribute to the community immunity, protecting those who are not able to be vaccinated for medical reasons.
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Tens of thousands died with measles annually in 19th century America. Until 1960 – Before the introduction of a vaccine – improvements in rehabilitation and diet had eliminated 98% of deaths from measles. Good diet remains a the best defense Against most chronic and infectious diseases. Vitamins A, C and D, and foods rich in vitamins B12, C and E should be part of a balanced diet.
Health workers work tirelessly on the first lines of this epidemic to treat the affected individuals and prevent further transmission. Their dedication and resistance are commendable and deserve unwavering support. It is important that we give them the resources and support they need to continue their vital work.
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The outbreak of measles in Texas is an invitation to action for all of us to re -confirm our commitment to public health. Working together – parents, health care providers, community leaders and government officials can prevent future epidemics and protect the health of our nation. Under my leadership, HHS is and will always be dedicated to radical transparency to regain public confidence in its health agencies.
For more information about measles visit Official CDC website or contact the local health care department.
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