Texas confirms first measles death in US in a decade

Texas confirmed its first measles death, marking the first US fatality from the disease since 2015. The unvaccinated school-age child from Gaines County died in Lubbock, according to health officials.

The outbreak, originating in an under-vaccinated Mennonite community, has spread across multiple counties and into New Mexico. Texas has recorded 124 cases, with 18 hospitalizations.

Declared eliminated in 2000, measles has resurfaced due to declining vaccination rates.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) warns the disease is highly contagious and can spread through respiratory droplets.

The MMR vaccine is 97% effective with two doses. Officials urge vaccinations to prevent further deaths.

In a Cabinet meeting Wednesday, Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. said a second person has also died.