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Venezuelan Soccer Player Deported Under Alien Enemies Act Over Misinterpreted Tattoo

Edward Saenz
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Venezuelan Soccer Player Deported Under Alien Enemies Act Over Misinterpreted Tattoo

A Venezuelan soccer player seeking asylum in the United States has been deported to El Salvador under the Alien Enemies Act, allegedly due to a tattoo resembling a soccer logo. His attorney argues that the deportation was based on a misinterpretation, raising concerns about due process and mistaken identity.

Deportation Sparked by Soccer Tattoo

Linette Tobin, the attorney representing Jerce Reyes Barrios, stated in court filings that her client was wrongfully deported due to suspicions linking him to the Venezuelan gang Tren de Aragua (TdA). Barrios, a professional soccer player and children’s coach, was an outspoken critic of the Maduro regime and participated in protests earlier in 2024. Following one demonstration, he was detained and tortured in Venezuela before fleeing to the U.S.-Mexico border through the CBP One app in September 2024.

Despite entering the U.S. legally, Barrios was detained under maximum security, accused of having a gang-affiliated tattoo, and allegedly seen displaying gang signs in photos. However, Tobin contends that the tattoo in question—a crown over a soccer ball with a rosary and the word “Dios” (God)—was inspired by the Real Madrid logo, as confirmed by the tattoo artist. She also noted that the supposed gang signs were actually common gestures for rock and roll and “I love you” in sign language.

Evidence Ignored?

Tobin provided records from Venezuela proving Barrios had no criminal history and was employed as a professional athlete. After this evidence was submitted, Barrios was transferred out of maximum security and scheduled for a hearing on April 17. However, on March 10 or 11, he was suddenly moved to Texas without notice and then deported to El Salvador on March 15.

Barrios’ family and legal team lost all contact with him. His aunt, Ayari del Carmen Pedroza Guerrero, identified him in photos from the notorious CECOT prison in El Salvador, recognizing a distinctive scar on his hand.

DHS Defends Deportation Decision

The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) maintains that Barrios was affiliated with the TdA gang. “Jerce Reyes Barrios was not only in the United States illegally, but he has tattoos that are consistent with those indicating TdA gang membership,” DHS spokesperson Tricia McLaughlin stated. She also claimed that his social media activity indicated ties to the gang.

When pressed for additional evidence, an administration official stated that Barrios had other tattoos associated with TdA, though specifics were not disclosed.

Family Left in the Dark

Barrios’ family has not yet informed his young children about his imprisonment. His daughter, in a heartfelt video, spoke about her father: “I love him so much… he always tells me fairy tales and we always go to soccer games together. He loved me so much and always made me my breakfast of bread, eggs, and juice. I love you so much, Dad.”

Legal Battle Over Deportations

The deportation occurred despite a legal challenge to the use of the Alien Enemies Act. President Donald Trump recently declared the Tren de Aragua gang a national security threat, using the 1798 law to justify mass deportations. However, U.S. District Judge James Boasberg temporarily blocked the deportations and ordered the return of flights carrying alleged gang members. The administration has resisted compliance, citing national security concerns, and the Justice Department is considering invoking the state secrets privilege to withhold further details from the court.

Barrios’ case highlights growing concerns about potential misidentifications in deportation proceedings and the consequences of expanded immigration enforcement under the Alien Enemies Act.

Keep up with immigration updates with us on Que Onda Magazine.

Bystander killed during gunfight was buying Happy Meals for grandkids at time of death, sheriff says

Indira Zaldivar
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Bystander killed during gunfight was buying Happy Meals for grandkids at time of death, sheriff says

A beloved grandfather lost his life in a tragic shooting at a McDonald’s in northwest Harris County, leaving his family and community devastated. The incident occurred on Sunday, March 16, at around 5:30 p.m. at the McDonald’s on N. Fry Road near W. Little York Road.

Authorities say 61-year-old Jorge Rolando Arbaiza was inside the restaurant ordering Happy Meals for his grandchildren when gunfire broke out between two groups of individuals. He was struck multiple times and later succumbed to his injuries at Memorial Hermann Hospital.

The suspect, identified as 24-year-old Antoine Ridge, has been arrested and charged with murder. Investigators revealed that Ridge had a history of legal troubles, including a pending warrant for aggravated assault on a family member, an open reckless driving case from 2022, and prior offenses in Florida related to theft and fraud. His bond has been set at $1 million, and his next court appearance is scheduled for Monday.

Sheriff Ed Gonzalez expressed deep sorrow over the senseless violence, noting that Arbaiza’s final act was making the sign of the cross and praying.

Remembering Jorge Rolando Arbaiza

With profound sadness, the Arbaiza family mourns the loss of Jorge Rolando Arbaiza, a devoted husband, father, grandfather, son, and brother. At 61 years old, Jorge’s life was tragically cut short, but his legacy of love, kindness, and dedication to his family will endure forever.

Jorge immigrated to the United States at 19 with dreams of building a better future. Through determination and hard work, he became a dedicated employee of Enterprise Rent-A-Car for 33 years. His greatest passion, however, was his family—especially his grandchildren, for whom he always sought to create joyful moments.

He shared a beautiful 39-year marriage with his childhood sweetheart, Teresa De Jesus Arbaiza. His kindness and laughter touched all who knew him, leaving an unforgettable mark on those he encountered.

The Arbaiza family has set up a GoFundMe page to help cover funeral expenses and support his wife during this difficult time. Any contributions, no matter how small, will be greatly appreciated.

For more updates on this story follow us on Que Onda Magazine.

Microplastics Found in Human Brains: Scientists Warn of Possible Link to Dementia

Indira Zaldivar
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Microplastics Found in Human Brains: Scientists Warn of Possible Link to Dementia

A groundbreaking study has uncovered alarming evidence that microplastics—tiny plastic particles often smaller than a grain of sand—are accumulating in human brains. Even more concerning, researchers have found a significant correlation between microplastics and cognitive diseases such as dementia.

Shocking Discovery: Plastic in the Brain

Published in Nature Medicine in February, the study revealed that human brains contained as much as a spoonful of microplastics. This level of plastic accumulation far exceeds what has been found in other organs like the kidneys or liver, according to Courthouse News Service.

Even more striking, researchers discovered that individuals with dementia had three to five times higher levels of microplastics and nanoplastics in their brains compared to those without the disease.

Why This Matters

The presence of microplastics in the brain is particularly alarming given the rapid increase in global plastic production. According to Our World in Data, plastic production has more than doubled in the past two decades. Because plastic takes anywhere from decades to over a thousand years to break down, these pollutants are becoming an inescapable part of the environment—and, as it turns out, the human body.

Nicholas Fabiano, from the University of Ottawa’s Department of Psychiatry, highlighted the urgency of the situation: “The dramatic increase in brain microplastic concentrations over just eight years, from 2016 to 2024, is particularly alarming.”

Can Microplastics Cause Dementia?

While the study does not conclusively prove that microplastics cause dementia, it presents strong evidence that warrants further investigation.

“Now, this does not necessarily mean that microplastics cause dementia per se, however it does warrant further investigation,” Fabiano told Courthouse News.

Understanding the effects of microplastics on cognitive function could pave the way for new treatments and preventative measures against neurological diseases. Research institutions such as the University of New Mexico’s Alzheimer’s Disease Research Center are already diving deeper into the issue, with newly secured funding to expand their studies.

What Can Be Done?

The fight against microplastic pollution starts with awareness and action. While scientists work on understanding its full impact, individuals can help reduce plastic contamination by limiting the use of single-use plastics, such as water bottles and food containers.

Every small step—from choosing reusable products to supporting policies aimed at reducing plastic waste—can make a difference in keeping microplastics out of our environment and our bodies.

As research continues, one thing is clear: the presence of microplastics in the human brain is a wake-up call that demands urgent attention.

Keep up with plastic pollution and more environmental news with us on Que Onda Magazine.

Free breast cancer screenings at Freed Community Center

Indira Zaldivar
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Free breast cancer screenings at Freed Community Center

Harris County Precint 4 Commissioner Lesley Briones partnered with Harris County Public Health to offer free breast cancer screenings on Wednesday through 5 p.m.

These health screenings will be offered at Freed Community Center, in honor of Women’s History Month.

To take advantage of the free health preventative opportunity, register using the following link.

When: Wednesday, March 2010 a.m. – 5 p.m.

Where: Freed Community Center located at 6818 Shadyvilla Lane Houston, Texas 77055.

Keep up with more health resources with us on Que Onda Magazine.

Exámenes gratuitos de detección de cáncer de mama el miércoles hasta las 5 p.m.

La Comisionada del Precinto 4 del Condado de Harris, Lesley Briones, se asoció con el Departamento de Salud Pública del Condado de Harris para ofrecer exámenes gratuitos de detección de cáncer de mama el miércoles hasta las 5 p.m.

Estos exámenes de salud se ofrecerán en el Centro Comunitario Freed en honor al Mes de la Historia de la Mujer.

Para aprovechar esta oportunidad de prevención gratuita, regístrese utilizando el siguiente enlace.

Cuándo: Miércoles, 20 de marzo, 10 a.m. – 5 p.m.

Dónde: Centro Comunitario Freed, ubicado en 6818 Shadyvilla Lane, Houston, Texas 77055.

Menendez Brothers’ Resentencing in Question as DA Hochman Challenges Claims

Indira Zaldivar
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Menendez Brothers’ Resentencing in Question as DA Hochman Challenges Claims

Los Angeles County District Attorney Eric Hochman has moved to withdraw a resentencing petition for Lyle and Erik Menendez, arguing that the brothers’ persistent claims of self-defense undermine their eligibility for reconsideration. Hochman asserts that the Menendez brothers, who were convicted of the 1989 murders of their parents, Jose and Kitty Menendez, have not met the standards for rehabilitation.

Disputing the Defense

Speaking with reporter Aaron Gutman, Hochman confirmed that his office has compiled a list of 20 alleged falsehoods told by the brothers since their conviction. While he noted that they have admitted to four of these, he emphasized that 16 crucial claims—central to their self-defense argument—remain unacknowledged.

“The essence of that checklist is that they’d have to finally admit after 30 years that they killed their parents willfully, deliberately, and in a premeditated fashion—not because they believed their parents were going to kill them that night,” Hochman told ABC News.

Hochman stopped short of taking a personal stance on whether the brothers deserve to die in prison, saying, “My personal belief is completely irrelevant. What I do is follow the facts and the law in each case.”

Sexual Abuse Allegations Disputed

The Menendez brothers and some surviving family members have long claimed that they endured horrific sexual abuse at the hands of their father, a claim central to their defense. However, Hochman has taken a skeptical stance, arguing that sexual abuse was never formally used as a defense for their murder charges.

“There was no corroboration from another adult, a friend, a coach, or a teacher in 12 years,” Hochman told ABC News. “Was there evidence presented at trial? Yes. Was it the defense that the Menendezes used to justify first-degree murder? Absolutely not.”

His remarks have drawn criticism from family members who advocate for the brothers’ release. One cousin described Hochman’s tone as “hostile, dismissive, and patronizing.”

Upcoming Court Dates

A hearing on the DA’s motion to withdraw the resentencing petition is scheduled for April 11. If the court allows the process to continue, a resentencing hearing may take place on April 17 and 18. If a judge rules that the brothers should be eligible for parole review, Hochman indicated that his office would assess the legal justification before deciding whether to appeal.

“If the judge does his job and looks at all the factors, reaching a different conclusion than us—but one that the law also supports—we would not be in a position to appeal that,” Hochman stated.

Broader Efforts for Release

Beyond the resentencing petition, the Menendez brothers have pursued two additional paths to potential freedom. In 2023, they filed a habeas corpus petition citing new evidence: a letter Erik Menendez wrote to his cousin detailing alleged abuse, and an account from a former boy band member who claims he was raped by Jose Menendez. Hochman’s office has moved to deny this petition, arguing that the new evidence lacks credibility.

The brothers have also sought clemency from California Governor Gavin Newsom. On February 26, Newsom ordered a 90-day review by the parole board to assess whether they pose a public risk if released.

As the legal battle continues, the Menendez family remains divided. Supporters insist that the brothers have accepted responsibility, reformed in prison, and should be given a second chance. Hochman, however, remains firm in his assessment, stating that the facts do not support leniency.

The Menendez family is expected to speak publicly about the case later this week.

Keep up with the Menendez brothers’ legal battle with us on Que Onda Magazine.

Dry air leads to chilly mornings in Southeast Texas

ABC13 Houston
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Dry air leads to chilly mornings in Southeast Texas

HOUSTON, Texas (KTRK) — A cold front ushering in some beautiful afternoons as the spring season officially begins.

Overnight lows in the mid 40s will run about 10 degrees below normal for the time of year. A perfectly clear, blue sky will warm temperatures up toward 70 in the afternoon. Expect oak pollen levels to remain high while you’re enjoying the beautiful weather. Wind speeds will be lower than the last couple of days as high pressure builds in over the state, but with the extremely dry air remaining in place, fire weather concerns continue. A Fire Weather Warning remains in effect from 1 to 7 pm Thursday.

As high pressure slides over us Thursday night, lows will cool into the low 40s for Houston and as cold as the mid 30s outside of Houston, especially north and east of Houston. These readings are cold enough to put a little frost on the ground outside of Houston.

It’s been pretty dry lately. Is there any hope for rain over the next 10 days?

Our next chance for rain is late Sunday with the approach of a cool front.The air will be unstable, and isolated severe thunderstorms with large hail and gusty winds are possible. Rain chances climb from 40% in the afternoon to 60% Sunday night, but most of that rain will be long gone by sunrise Monday.

Are we warming back into the 90s anytime soon?

We currently have no 90 degrees in our forecast, but there are plenty of mid 80s highs predicted over the next 10 days. Spring weather is here, and we usually start hitting 90 on a regular basis in May.

This story comes from our news partner ABC13 Houston.

Keep up with all things Houston with us on Que Onda Magazine.

Houston Astros Unveil Futuristic City Connect 2.0 Jerseys for 2025

Michael Esparza
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Houston Astros Unveil Futuristic City Connect 2.0 Jerseys for 2025

The Houston Astros have officially revealed their highly anticipated Nike City Connect 2.0 uniforms, marking a bold evolution in their tribute to Houston’s deep ties to space exploration and innovation. These new uniforms replace the popular “Space City” design introduced in 2022, offering fans a fresh look as the team prepares for the upcoming MLB season.

Design Highlights

The 2025 City Connect uniforms embrace a futuristic aesthetic while honoring Houston’s historical contributions to space travel. Key features include:

  • “Stros” Chest Plate: For the first time, the Astros have formally adopted the fan-favorite nickname “Stros,” prominently displayed across the chest in sleek, digital-style lettering. This represents a nod to the passionate H-Town faithful.
  • Lunar Pinstriping and Tequila Sunrise Gradient: The trim incorporates lunar surface patterns alongside the iconic orange-to-yellow gradient inspired by the “Tequila Sunrise” design from Astros history.
  • Mission Patch: A sleeve patch inspired by Union Station, featuring an orange “H” beneath a white star within a baseball diamond, celebrates both the team’s home and its historical roots.
  • Futuristic Hat Logo: The cap combines elements of the Astros’ traditional star logo with a modernized “A.” The interior features imagery of Mars and the phrase “The Next Frontier,” symbolizing Houston’s forward-looking spirit.
  • HTX Belt Loop: The beltline is embroidered with “HTX,” representing Houston’s youthful and innovative identity.

Symbolism and Inspiration

The uniform design reflects Houston’s relentless pursuit of innovation, encapsulating themes from President John F. Kennedy’s famous speech at Rice University in 1962: “We choose to do things not because they are easy but because they are hard.” This quote appears on a jock tag on the jersey, commemorating Houston’s role in space exploration and its vision for the future.

Debut and Availability

The Astros will wear their new City Connect uniforms for the first time on Monday, March 31, 2025, during their home opener against the San Francisco Giants. Fans can expect to see these jerseys during all “Space City Monday” home games throughout the season. Additionally, a special “City Connect Weekend” is scheduled for April 11-13, featuring themed giveaways and activations at Daikin Park.

To celebrate the launch, Astros fans can purchase merchandise during a 24-hour event at Union Station starting at midnight on March 20. The event includes exclusive photo opportunities, appearances by mascot Orbit, and special activities hosted by the Astros Coca-Cola Shooting Stars. Merchandise will also be available at other team stores throughout the week.

Daredevil: Born Again Episode 4 Deepens Character Arcs and Introduces Intriguing New Dynamics

Michael Esparza
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Daredevil: Born Again Episode 4 Deepens Character Arcs and Introduces Intriguing New Dynamics

Episode 4 of Marvel’s highly anticipated series, Daredevil: Born Again, continues to build upon the emotional depth and complex storytelling established in previous episodes. Without revealing key plot details, this episode masterfully explores the internal struggles and moral conflicts faced by its central characters, Matt Murdock (Charlie Cox) and Wilson Fisk (Vincent D’Onofrio), while also featuring the highly anticipated return of Frank Castle, aka the Punisher.

Matt Murdock Faces Internal Conflict

Matt Murdock remains deeply affected by recent events, wrestling with grief, guilt, and his own identity. This episode offers viewers a closer look at Matt’s emotional journey as he grapples with difficult decisions and unresolved trauma from his past. Charlie Cox delivers a compelling performance, portraying Matt’s vulnerability and internal battle with authenticity and nuance.

A key moment in the episode occurs when Matt has a tense reunion with Frank Castle (Jon Bernthal), marking the Punisher’s return to the MCU. Their exchange is emotionally charged, as Matt confronts Frank about a violent act tied to him. Frank, however, challenges Matt’s moral approach to justice, accusing him of being too idealistic and unwilling to fully embrace his darker side. This confrontation forces Matt to reflect on his own methods and unresolved grief over past losses, further pushing him toward reclaiming his Daredevil identity.

Wilson Fisk Navigates Personal Challenges

Meanwhile, Wilson Fisk continues to balance his public role as New York City’s mayor with his private life and personal relationships. Episode 4 delves deeper into Fisk’s character, highlighting the complexities of his dual identity as both a respected public official and a man struggling with darker impulses. Vincent D’Onofrio brings depth to Fisk’s portrayal, skillfully navigating the tension between Fisk’s outward restraint and his inner turmoil.

A Chilling New Threat Emerges

The episode also introduces Muse, an unsettling new antagonist whose presence adds a darker tone to the series. Muse’s actions are both horrifying and artistic in nature, creating a chilling atmosphere that raises the stakes for Daredevil and his allies. This new villain promises intriguing developments for future episodes while staying true to the gritty street-level tone fans have come to expect.

Rich Emotional Depth and Character Interactions

Episode 4 expertly balances intense drama with quieter character moments that humanize its protagonists. Whether it’s Matt’s interactions with those close to him or Fisk’s strained personal relationships, these moments add layers of emotional depth that make the characters’ struggles feel grounded and relatable.

Themes of Identity, Morality, and Redemption

Thematically, the episode explores questions of identity, morality, redemption, and the tension between one’s public persona and private truths. It effectively sets up intriguing parallels between Daredevil and Kingpin—two men trying to suppress their darker impulses but inevitably drawn back into conflict.

Overall, Episode 4 of Daredevil: Born Again successfully advances character development while introducing compelling new dynamics. With strong performances from Charlie Cox, Vincent D’Onofrio, and Jon Bernthal, alongside thoughtful storytelling and intriguing new elements like Muse’s arrival, this episode sets the stage for heightened drama in future installments. Fans can look forward to seeing how these conflicts evolve as the series progresses.

Stay tuned each week for our in-depth episode reviews!

Post Malone Rocks RodeoHouston with Country Flair

Indira Zaldivar
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Post Malone Rocks RodeoHouston with Country Flair

A Night to Remember

Post Malone took the RodeoHouston stage after walking out dressed like what many would say a RodeoHouston volunteer with a simple white button down shirt, jeans, cowboy boots and a RodeoHouston vest, on Tuesday night, just months after selling out two nights at Cynthia Woods Mitchell Pavilion. The demand was undeniable—he could have easily opened and closed the event in 2025 and still sold out both nights. Outside NRG Stadium, the atmosphere was electric, with packed parking lots and fans eager to see the genre-blending artist in action.

Post Malone RodeoHouston | Courtesy of the Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo© CultureMap Houston

From Hip-Hop to Honky Tonk

The music world has embraced country once again, and Post Malone has joined the movement with his latest album, F-1 Trillion. His transformation—Wrangler jeans, pearl snap shirts, and five-figure cowboy boots—initially raised eyebrows among traditionalists, similar to the reception Beyoncé faced with Cowboy Carter. Yet, Malone’s country experiment has resonated, proving his ability to seamlessly merge styles.

A Setlist Built for Rodeo Fans

Malone kicked off his set with Wrong Ones, making his way to the stage like a true showman. A country-infused version of Circles followed, with the artist—barefoot and relaxed—channeling the spirit of RodeoHouston.

“I’m doing my best not to cuss tonight, ladies and gentlemen,” he joked, though the occasional expletive slipped through. The crowd didn’t seem to mind.

From Pour Me A Drink (with his signature Solo cup in hand) to a twangy rendition of Psycho, Malone effortlessly blended his past hits with country elements. His band, featuring the talented Lillie Mae on fiddle, gave Never Love You Again a soulful lift.

A highlight of the night? A faithful cover of George Strait’s Ocean Front Property, met with thunderous applause. Given the number of Strait covers at this year’s rodeo, fans are already speculating about a possible return of “King George” to NRG in 2026.

A Grand Finale of Pyro and Passion

The night reached its peak with Congratulations, complete with explosive pyro and searing guitar solos. As Malone flashed his newly earned RodeoHouston belt buckle, he proved his ability to dominate yet another genre.

Setlist Highlights:

  • Wrong Ones
  • Circles
  • What Don’t Belong to Me
  • Pour Me A Drink
  • Psycho
  • White Iverson
  • Never Love You Again
  • Ocean Front Property (George Strait cover)
  • Better Now
  • I Had Some Help
  • Rockstar
  • Congratulations
  • Sunflower

Post Malone didn’t just bring his music to RodeoHouston—he brought an experience. With his country crossover in full swing, one thing is clear: Posty belongs here.

Keep up with RodeoHouston with us on Que Onda Magazine.

Measles Outbreak Spreads Across Texas, New Mexico, and Oklahoma

Que Onda Editorial
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Measles Outbreak Spreads Across Texas, New Mexico, and Oklahoma

The ongoing measles outbreak in Texas, New Mexico, and Oklahoma continues to escalate, with health officials reporting 321 cases as of Tuesday. This marks an increase of 25 cases since the last update on Friday.

Texas has recorded the highest number of cases, with 279 individuals affected. New Mexico follows with 38 cases, while Oklahoma has reported four cases linked to the outbreak.

Hospitalizations and Affected Populations

A total of 38 patients have been hospitalized, reflecting an increase of two cases over the past week. Among those infected, 95 cases involve children aged four or younger, while 130 cases are in individuals between the ages of 5 and 17. The outbreak has been identified in 11 counties across Texas and two counties in New Mexico.

Gaines County, Texas, remains the hardest-hit area, with 191 confirmed cases. In New Mexico, the majority of cases are concentrated in Lea County, which shares a border with Gaines County.

Vaccination Status and Fatalities

Health officials report that most of those infected were either unvaccinated or had an unknown vaccination status. However, six individuals—two in Texas and four in New Mexico—had received at least one dose of the measles-mumps-rubella (MMR) vaccine.

Tragically, the outbreak has resulted in at least one confirmed fatality. Texas reported the death of an unvaccinated school-age child with no underlying health conditions. Meanwhile, New Mexico health officials are investigating the death of another unvaccinated individual who tested positive for measles.

Health Officials Expect Further Spread

Public health experts anticipate that the outbreak will continue to grow due to measles’ highly contagious nature.

“This is going to be a large outbreak, and we are still in the phase where the number of cases is increasing. I’m really thinking this is going to be a year-long battle,” said Katherine Wells, director of Lubbock Public Health, during a Tuesday briefing.

She emphasized the challenges of containing the outbreak in rural, multi-state regions, noting that extensive resources and manpower will be required.

Response Efforts and Testing Expansion

Efforts to curb the outbreak have included expanding testing capabilities. Previously, specimens had to be transported to Austin for analysis, a process that took up to 72 hours. Now, labs in Lubbock can provide same-day results, significantly improving response times.

Officials have pointed to lessons from previous outbreaks, such as the 2023 measles outbreak in Chicago, where widespread testing and targeted vaccinations helped prevent further spread. During that outbreak, 30,000 MMR vaccinations were administered, preventing the number of cases from surpassing 100.

National Impact and Federal Assistance

The current outbreak has pushed national measles cases to at least 353 as of March 18, surpassing the total number of cases recorded in all of 2024. This marks only the third time since measles was declared eliminated in the U.S. in 2000 that an outbreak has resulted in more than 200 cases. The previous instances occurred in 2014 (linked to Disneyland) and 2019 (a prolonged outbreak in New York that nearly reversed measles elimination status in the U.S.).

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention has been assisting Texas health officials in controlling the outbreak. However, local health authorities express concerns about potential staffing and budget cuts at the federal level, which could hinder containment efforts.

“Our ability to conduct vaccination clinics, epidemiological investigations, and contact tracing relies heavily on federal support. We are deeply concerned about the possible reductions in resources,” said Dr. Philip Huang, director of Dallas County Health and Human Services.

Health officials continue to urge parents to ensure their children are fully vaccinated against measles, emphasizing that immunization remains the most effective tool in preventing further spread of the disease.

Keep up with the measles outbreak and preventative resources with us on Que Onda Magazine.

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