Measles Outbreak in Texas Continues to Grow, Expert Discusses Role of Pharmacist

Crystal Hodge, PharmD, associate professor of pharmacotherapy at The University of North Texas Health Science Center at Fort Worth, provides a comprehensive overview of measles, highlighting the dramatic impact of vaccination on public health. Before vaccines were introduced in the 1960s, the United States experienced approximately 500,000 measles cases annually, resulting in 500 deaths, 50,000 hospitalizations, and 1,000 cases of permanent brain damage from encephalitis. Thanks to widespread vaccination, the country nearly eliminated measles, maintaining only about 63 cases per year between 2000 and 2019.

However, recent data reveals a concerning trend. As of April 11, 2023, there are 712 measles cases across more than 20 states, with 6 to 7 active outbreaks. Texas and New Mexico account for 90% of these cases, with Texas reporting 561 cases and New Mexico 58. Alarmingly, 97% of cases involve unvaccinated individuals or individuals with unknown vaccination status, with one-third of cases affecting children under five who haven't completed their MMR vaccine series. The outbreak has led to 56 hospitalizations in Texas and three deaths nationwide.

Hodge emphasizes the critical importance of vaccination and herd immunity. Experts recommend a vaccination rate of over 95% to prevent outbreaks, but some communities in West Texas have rates as low as 50%. Measles is extraordinarily contagious, with an R naught value of 12 to 18, meaning each infected person can potentially spread the disease to 12 to 18 others in a vulnerable population. The virus is airborne, can remain in the air for two hours, and individuals can be contagious for eight days before and after showing symptoms. Additionally, measles can have long-term health consequences, including potential brain infections and immune amnesia, which can compromise an individual's existing immunity.

"Try to make sure that you are protected, first and foremost, and then second, it depends on what the situation is," Hodge said. "Please, please, please, recommend them to get tested, whether that is at an emergency room or an urgent care, but before they show up anywhere . . . they need to call and let them know, because, again, this is an airborne transmitted infection. It's highly contagious. There need to be proper precautions put in place."