In recent months, a resurgence of measles in West Texas and New Mexico has raised alarms, with two tragic deaths linked to an outbreak fueled by declining vaccination rates. The first victim, an unvaccinated child from Texas with no pre-existing health conditions, died in late February. Just a week later, health officials reported the death of an unvaccinated adult in New Mexico who tested positive for measles posthumously.

This growing outbreak highlights a dangerous trend as misinformation about measles spreads rapidly on social media. Some political figures, like US Representative Marjorie Taylor Greene from Georgia, have downplayed the severity of the disease, suggesting dangerous practices like “measles parties” to build immunity in children. Health experts have vehemently condemned such notions, warning that measles can lead to severe complications—up to one in five measles cases result in hospitalization, and complications such as pneumonia and encephalitis can be deadly.

Measles was a common childhood illness before the introduction of the vaccine in 1963, with millions infected annually in the United States. The vaccine has led to a substantial reduction in cases; however, the current outbreak serves as a reminder of the virus's potential resurgence, particularly among unvaccinated populations. In fact, as of March 11, Texas recorded 223 measles cases, with 29 individuals hospitalized, while New Mexico reported 33 cases with one hospitalization. Alarmingly, the vaccination rate for kindergarteners in Gaines County, Texas, hovers at only 82%, far below the 95% target needed to effectively protect the community.

The highly contagious nature of measles is a public health concern. The virus can remain airborne for up to two hours after an infected person coughs or sneezes, making it crucial for communities to maintain high vaccination coverage. Pediatric infectious disease specialist Glenn Fennelly explains that measles disrupts the immune system, leading to what researchers term “immune amnesia.” This makes individuals more vulnerable to other infections long after the measles illness has resolved.

Complications from measles include pneumonia, a condition leading to serious respiratory issues that can require hospitalization with oxygen therapy or mechanical ventilation. Additionally, there is a risk of encephalitis, a severe swelling of the brain that can cause lasting neurological damage. According to Edith Bracho-Sanchez from Columbia University, pneumonia is the leading cause of death from measles, particularly among young children.

Vaccination remains the most effective way to prevent measles. The measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR) vaccine is highly effective—93% after the first dose and 97% after the second. The first dose is recommended for children between 12 and 15 months, with a second dose given between ages 4 and 6. Unfortunately, there are currently no antiviral treatments for measles, and while vitamin A is often administered to infected patients, it is not a cure.

In light of the current outbreak, health experts stress the importance of maintaining proper nutritional status and vaccination. While some discussions regarding alternative treatments abound, such as the use of cod liver oil for vitamin A content, experts warn of the risks associated with high dosages. Instead, they advocate for a balanced diet rich in fruits and vegetables as a means of supporting overall health.

As measles cases continue to rise, it is imperative for communities to combat misinformation and promote vaccination as the first line of defense against this preventable disease. Vaccination not only protects individuals but also helps safeguard public health, ensuring that stories of loss become a thing of the past.