Texas Sees Worst Measles Outbreak in 30 Years: Should Louisiana Be Concerned?

A measles outbreak in Texas has reached concerning levels, with 48 confirmed cases—the highest in nearly three decades. According to the Associated Press, the majority of cases have been reported in children and teens who are unvaccinated or have unknown vaccination status. While the outbreak remains centered in a rural Mennonite community in West Texas, health officials are warning that it could spread.

With Louisiana sharing a border with Texas and the state government recently shifting its stance on vaccine promotion, many residents are wondering: Could the outbreak reach our state?

How the Outbreak is Spreading

The Texas Department of State Health Services (DSHS) confirmed that the outbreak started in Gaines County and has since expanded to other nearby counties, including Lynn, Terry, and Yoakum. One case has also been reported in Lea County, New Mexico.

Measles is one of the most contagious diseases, spreading through coughing, sneezing, or even lingering in the air for up to two hours. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), up to 90% of unvaccinated individuals who are exposed to the virus will contract it.

Could Measles Cross into Louisiana?

While there are no reported cases in Louisiana, the possibility of the virus reaching the state is a growing concern. Dr. Paul Offit, director of the Vaccine Education Center at the Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, warned that measles "will seek out those who aren't vaccinated." With Texas' proximity and Louisiana’s high rates of interstate travel, the risk of exposure is real.

Adding to concerns, the Louisiana Department of Health (LDH) recently announced that it would no longer actively promote vaccinations, citing government overreach. Public health experts worry that this stance, combined with vaccine hesitancy, could leave more people vulnerable if the virus enters Louisiana.

Louisiana's Vaccinations—What Are We Looking Like?

In Louisiana, measles vaccinations are required for most children entering public school. However, the state allows exemptions for medical, religious, and philosophical reasons. The number of parents opting out of vaccinations has risen in recent years, a trend that worries health officials as measles cases rise nationwide.

Texas law also allows vaccine exemptions, and in some rural communities, opt-out rates have reached nearly 14%—far above the state average. Public health experts believe this has contributed to the rapid spread of the current outbreak.

What Can Louisiana Residents Do?

Health experts emphasize that vaccination remains the best protection against measles. The CDC recommends that children receive two doses of the MMR (measles, mumps, and rubella) vaccine, which is about 97% effective in preventing measles.

Residents who are unsure about their vaccination status should check their records and consider getting vaccinated if they are not fully immunized. Additionally, anyone who has been in contact with an infected person should monitor for symptoms, which include high fever, cough, runny nose, and a signature red rash.

So, What's The Bottom Line Here?

While Louisiana has yet to see any measles cases from the Texas outbreak, it's almost impossible for us to ignore how quickly infectious diseases can spread. With growing vaccine hesitancy and shifting public health policies, the best way to protect communities is to stay informed and—if it's your thing—ensure vaccinations are up to date.

For the latest updates on the measles outbreak and Louisiana’s health policies, tap in with the Associated Press with the full story here.