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As secretary of the American Department of Health and Social Services, I am deeply concerned about the recent measles epidemic. This situation intensified quickly, with the spill of Texas Department of State Health Services (DSHS) reporting 146 cases confirmed since the end of January 2025, mainly in the South Plains region. Tragically, this epidemic won the life of a school-aged child, the first death-related death in the United States in more than a decade.
Vaccines not only protect individual children from measles, but also contribute to community immunity, protecting those who cannot be vaccinated for medical reasons.
Measles is a very contagious respiratory disease with certain health risks, especially unvaccinated individuals. The virus spreads by direct contact with infectious droplets when an infected person breathes, touches or sneezes. The first symptoms include high fever, cough, flowing nose and red and aqueous eyes, followed by a characteristic rash. Most cases are light but rare complications can be serious, especially pneumonia, blindness and encephalitis. Before the introduction of the vaccine in the 1960s, almost all children in the United States contracted measles. For example, in the United States, from 1953 to 1962, there was on average 530,217 confirmed cases and 440 deathsA case death rate of 1 in 1,205 cases.
Mesters of measles continue to spread in several states after the death of the child
The current epidemic of Texas mainly affected children, with 116 of the 146 cases that occurred in people under the age of 18. The DSHS reports that 79 of the confirmed cases involved people who had not received the measles vaccine, mumps and rubella (MMR), while 62 cases had an unknown vaccine status. At least five had received an ROR vaccine.
Human crowd surrounding a bottle of injectable measles vaccine on a purple background. Horizontal composition with copy space. (istock)
In response to this epidemic, I led the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the Administration for Strategic Preparation and the Response (ASPR) to work closely with the Texas health authorities to provide full support. HHS efforts include technical assistance supply, laboratory support, vaccines and therapeutic drugs if necessary. The CDC is in continuous communication with Texas health officials, guaranteeing a coordinated and effective response to contain the epidemic. I spoke with Governor Greg Abbott and Texas health officials, committing to providing them with any additional support they need to put an end to this epidemic. I also spoke to the bereaved parents of the deceased child to offer a consolation.
First death of measles reported in western Texas in the middle of the growth epidemic
As health care providers, community leaders and political decision -makers, we are shared responsibility for protecting public health. This includes the guarantee that precise information on the safety and efficiency of vaccines is disseminated. We have to engage with communities to understand their concerns, provide culturally competent education and make vaccines easily accessible to all those who want them.
It is also our responsibility to provide up -to -date advice on available therapeutic drugs. Although there is no approved antiviral for those who can be infected, the CDC has Recently updated their recommendation Support the administration of vitamin A under the supervision of a doctor for those who have a light, moderate and severe infection. Studies have find Vitamin A can considerably reduce mortality to measles.
Parents play a central role in saving their children’s health. All parents should consult their health care providers to understand their options to obtain the ROR vaccine. The decision to vaccinate is personal. Vaccines not only protect individual children from measles, but also contribute to community immunity, protecting those who cannot be vaccinated for medical reasons.
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Tens of thousands died with or measles each year in 19th century America. In 1960 – before the introduction of the vaccine – improvements in sanitation and nutrition had eliminated 98% of the deaths of measles. Good nutrition remains a best defense Against most chronic and infectious diseases. Vitamins A, C and D and foods rich in vitamins B12, C and E must be part of a balanced diet.
Health professionals on the front line of this epidemic operate tirelessly to treat affected people and prevent additional transmission. Their dedication and resilience are laudable and they deserve unshakable support. It is essential that we provide them with the resources and support they need to continue their vital work.
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The measles epidemic in Texas is a call for action for all of us to reaffirm our commitment to public health. By working together – parents, health care providers, community leaders and government representatives, we can prevent future epidemics and protect the health of our nation. Under my direction, HHS is and will always be engaged in radical transparency to regain public confidence in its health agencies.
For more information on measles, please visit the Official CDC website Or contact your local health service.
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