As Gaines County, Texas, deals with a measles outbreak, experts are reminding Americans that outbreaks like these can be avoided with available safe and effective vaccines.

Summary

A measles outbreak in Gaines County, Texas, has infected 24 unvaccinated residents, with nine hospitalized.

Experts stress that such outbreaks are preventable with vaccines, which are highly effective. Texas has one of the highest vaccine exemption rates, contributing to the outbreak.

Nationwide, declining vaccination rates are increasing the risk of measles and other preventable diseases.

Measles is highly contagious, with symptoms including fever, cough, and rash, and can cause severe complications.