The largest measles outbreak in decades has spread to San Antonio and San Marcos, according to the Texas Department of State Health Services. The outbreak, originating in West Texas, has now reached major universities and one of the nation’s busiest tourist attractions—the San Antonio River Walk.

Officials report that an individual who tested positive for the virus in West Texas traveled to several key locations, potentially exposing many to the highly contagious disease. The infected individual visited:

• Friday, February 14th:
  • Texas State University in San Marcos from approximately 3 p.m. to 7 p.m.
  • Twin Peaks restaurant in San Marcos from 6 p.m. to 10 p.m.
• Saturday, February 15th:
  • The University of Texas at San Antonio Main Campus between 10 a.m. and 2 p.m.
  • San Antonio River Walk attractions— Wax Museum, Ripley’s Believe It or Not and Ripley’s Illusion Lab between 2:30 p.m. and 5:30 p.m.
  • Mr. Crabby’s Seafood and Bar in Live Oak between 6 p.m. and 8 p.m.

Health officials advise anyone present at these locations during these times, or up to two hours afterward, to monitor for symptoms. The individual resides in Gaines County, the epicenter of the West Texas outbreak, which has resulted in at least 90 confirmed cases, marking the worst measles outbreak in 30 years.

Gaines County has the highest unvaccinated rate in the state this school year at 18 percent, according to state health data. This alarming statistic underscores the importance of vaccination in preventing the spread of measles.

“Measles is a highly contagious virus that can lead to serious complications, especially in young children and individuals with weakened immune systems. If you think you may have been exposed or are showing symptoms, please contact your healthcare provider immediately,”

Dr. Anita Kurian, Deputy Director at the San Antonio Metropolitan Health District

Measles was declared eradicated in the United States in 2000, thanks to a successful vaccination program that ensured high levels of immunity in the population. However, recent declines in vaccination rates have led to a resurgence of preventable diseases, including measles.

“Individuals who have not been vaccinated are at greater risk of infection. We urge everyone to ensure they are up to date on their vaccinations to protect themselves and those around them,”

Dr. Anita Kurian

Dr. Peter Hotez, a prominent vaccine advocate, warns that the ecosystem that led to the elimination of measles in the United States in 2000 has changed as vaccination rates fall. He predicts more breakthrough outbreaks of all vaccine-preventable infections.

To protect the community from measles, Dr. Kurian emphasizes the importance of staying informed and taking necessary precautions. She encourages everyone to review their vaccination status and seek medical advice if they suspect exposure. Early detection and vaccination are key to preventing the spread of this preventable disease.

Public Health Recommendations

Public health officials recommend the following steps for those who may have been exposed:

• Review immunization and medical records to check if they are protected against measles. Those who have not had measles or the MMR (measles, mumps, rubella) vaccine may not be protected and should consult a healthcare provider about getting vaccinated.
• Contact their healthcare provider if they are pregnant, have an infant, or have a weakened immune system, regardless of their vaccination history.
• Monitor for symptoms such as fever or an unexplained rash from 4 to 21 days after exposure.
• If symptoms appear, stay home, and avoid school, work, and large gatherings. Call a healthcare provider right away. Do not enter a healthcare facility without first notifying them about your measles exposure and symptoms so you do not expose other patients.

About Measles

Measles spreads easily through the air when an infected person breathes, talks, coughs, or sneezes. The virus can stay in the air and on surfaces for two hours, even after the infected person has left. The infected person can spread the disease up to four days before a measles rash appears and up to four days after the rash appears. If other people breathe the contaminated air or touch the infected surface, then touch their eyes, noses, or mouths, they can become infected.

Common Symptoms for Measles Include:

• High fever (as high as 105°F)
• Cough
• Runny nose
• Red and watery eyes
• Tiny white spots that may appear inside the mouth 2-3 days after symptoms begin
• Rash 3-5 days after other signs of illness. The “measles rash” typically starts at the face and then spreads down to the rest of the body

Measles can be prevented with a measles, mumps, and rubella vaccine (MMR or MMRV). The MMR vaccine protects against three diseases: measles, mumps, and rubella. The MMRV vaccine protects against four diseases: measles, mumps, rubella, and varicella (chickenpox). They are administered in two doses and are highly effective: two doses are 97% effective against measles and one dose is 93% effective. The spread of measles can be prevented if two-dose coverage of vaccine remains at 95% or above in the community.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Measles and How Can It Be Prevented?

measles is a highly contagious virus that can lead to serious complications, particularly in young children and individuals with weakened immune systems. It spreads through the air and can linger on surfaces for up to two hours. The virus can be prevented through vaccination with the measles, mumps, and rubella vaccine (MMR or MMRV).

In Canada, two kinds of measles-containing vaccines are available: MMR and MMRV (which also protects against chickenpox) [[1]]. In the United States, the MMR vaccine’s first dose is recommended at 12 months of age, with a second dose at 4-6 years [[3]]. A single MMR dose offers 95% immunity, which increases to 96% after the second dose [[2]].

Why is Vaccination Vital to Prevent Measles?

Vaccination is crucial as it helps maintain herd immunity and prevents outbreaks. measles was declared eradicated in the U.S. in 2000 due to high vaccination rates, but recent declines in vaccination have led to the resurgence of this preventable disease. Experts emphasize the importance of achieving at least 95% vaccine coverage to prevent outbreaks.

What Are the Symptoms of Measles?

Common symptoms include:

• High fever (up to 105°F)
• Cough
• Runny nose
• Red and watery eyes
• Tiny white spots inside the mouth
• rash spreading from the face to the body

How Did the Recent Outbreak Occur and How Can I Stay Safe?

The latest outbreak in San Antonio and San Marcos originated in West Texas, with a significant unvaccinated population in the epicenter, Gaines County. Health officials urge those who visited certain locations in San Antonio and San Marcos on February 14th and 15th, 2025, or up to two hours afterward, to monitor for symptoms.

Mitigation steps include:

1. Reviewing immunization records for measles susceptibility
2. Contacting healthcare providers if pregnant, have infants, or have weakened immune systems
3. Watching for symptoms from 4 to 21 days after potential exposure
4. Staying home and avoiding contact with others if symptoms develop

Why Has Vaccination Coverage Declined?

Recent trends have shown a decline in vaccination rates, attributed to misinformation and hesitancy. this decline threatens the herd immunity that once led to the eradication of measles.Experts like Dr. Peter Hotez warn that falling vaccination rates could lead to more outbreaks of preventable diseases.

How Effective is the Measles Vaccine?

The MMR vaccine is highly effective, offering 93% protection after one dose and 97% after two doses. Ensuring two-dose coverage in the community remains crucial to preventing measles transmission.

What Are the Complications Associated with measles?

Serious complications can arise, especially in vulnerable populations, including pneumonia, encephalitis, and in severe cases, death.

Public Health Recommendations for Urgent Concerns

During an outbreak, residents should:

– Validate their vaccination status

– Seek immediate medical advice if symptoms appear or after exposure

– Follow quarantine protocols to prevent further spread if symptomatic