Health officials have confirmed the first measles case in Harris County since 2019, involving a child under 18 living in the northwest part of the county.
Case Details & Investigation
Harris County Public Health reported on Thursday that the child had no recent travel history and had received only one dose of the recommended two-dose measles vaccine. The child was not hospitalized and has since fully recovered.
The case is awaiting secondary confirmation from the Texas Department of State Health Services. In the meantime, HCPH is conducting contact tracing to identify anyone who may have been exposed.
Measles Case Investigation in Harris County 🚨
— Harris County Public Health #GetVaxxed (@hcphtx) April 3, 2025
Harris County Public Health is investigating a confirmed measles case in a child with no travel history in northwest Harris County. Contact tracing is underway to identify any exposed individuals.
💉 Protect yourself & your… pic.twitter.com/ifxpWyhuRc
Low Risk of Widespread Outbreak
Dr. Ericka Brown of HCPH says there is no immediate concern about a broader outbreak due to Harris County’s high vaccination rate—94%, just shy of the 95% recommended by the CDC for herd immunity.
“Even with strong coverage, breakthrough cases can happen, but we are well protected,” Brown said.
Understanding Measles
Measles is a highly contagious airborne virus spread through coughing or sneezing. Symptoms include:
- High fever
- Cough
- Runny nose
- Red, watery eyes
- Rash appearing 3–5 days after initial symptoms
Vaccination and Exposure Guidance
The first dose of the MMR (measles, mumps, rubella) vaccine is recommended between 12–15 months, with a second dose at 4–6 years. If exposed, individuals should quarantine and monitor symptoms for 21 days.
Declining Vaccination Rates Raise Concerns
A recent national report shows fewer children are getting vaccinated on time. In 2024, only 69% received their first dose by 15 months, down from 77% in 2020. By age six, only 80% had received both recommended doses.
Measles in Texas
As of April 1, the state has reported 422 measles cases, highlighting the importance of timely immunizations.
Though mask-wearing is not currently advised, officials stress that vaccination remains the best defense—especially for children and those unable to be vaccinated.
Keep up with the measles outbreak and prevention with us on Que Onda Magazine.