Measles death of unvaccinated child in Texas outbreak is 1st fatality in US in a decade

Summary

An unvaccinated child in Texas has died from measles, marking the first U.S. measles-related death in a decade.

The outbreak, centered in Gaines County, has infected 124 people, mostly unvaccinated children, and spread into New Mexico.

At least 18 people have been hospitalized. Health officials stress the importance of the MMR vaccine, which remains highly effective.

Despite past measles elimination in the U.S., declining vaccination rates have led to outbreaks. Officials anticipate more cases and urge vaccinations to prevent further spread.