4/9/2025
One thing you can do today: Learn more about how diseases such as measles spreads and how communities can respond to outbreaks.
Read the original article: ABC News
What Happened
A measles outbreak in western Texas has grown to 505 confirmed cases, with 24 new infections in the last 5 days. Most cases are among unvaccinated children and teens, with Gaines County being the hardest hit. At least 57 people have been hospitalized, and two unvaccinated children have died. Measles cases have now been reported in 21 states, and outbreaks are expanding in other areas like Indiana and Colorado.
Why It Matters
This outbreak signals a serious public health crisis stemming from declining vaccination rates. Measles, once declared eliminated in the U.S. in 2000, is now making a comeback due to vaccine hesitancy and inadequate immunization coverage. The disease is highly contagious - one of the most contagious viruses known - and preventable with a safe and effective vaccine.
Who It Affects
- Unvaccinated children and adults, who are at high risk of severe illness and death.
- Infants under 1 year old who are too young to be vaccinated but can still contract the disease.
- Immunocompromised individuals who cannot be vaccinated and rely on community immunity.
- Schools and public health systems, which must respond to outbreaks with limited resources.
Why Your Voice Matters
You have the power to influence public policy, spread accurate information, and protect your community. Vaccine decisions don't just affect one person - they shape the health and safety of entire populations. Whether you're a parent, teacher, healthcare worker, regular citizen, or student, your advocacy can help reduce preventable suffering and death.
Why You Should Care
Measles is not just a rash - it's a dangerous disease that can cause brain damage, pneumonia, blindness, and death. This outbreak reflects the broader challenge of trust in science, healthcare equity, and access to accurate information. Ignoring this issue now could allow more dangerous diseases to return and disrupt everyday life.
What You Can Do
If You Support Vaccination and Public Health Measures:
- Get vaccinated or ensure children in your community are up to date on their MMR shots.
- Support local immunization coalitions like Texas Immunization Partnership and California Immunization Coalition.
- Contact your local healthcare representative group to support stronger vaccine requirements for school enrollment.
- Donate to public health advocacy groups like Unity Consortium or Voices for Vaccines.
- Call or email your representatives directly using scripts from 5Calls.org.
- Share accurate information from sources like the CDC and WHO on social media.
If You Oppose Vaccination Mandates or Government Intervention:
- Use the NVIC Advocacy Portal to contact legislators about preserving vaccine choice.
- Support organizations like the Children’s Health Defense Fund that advocate for alternative health rights and medical freedom.
- Attend local town halls or school board meetings to voice concerns about vaccine mandates.