TIFS Investigates: Measles outbreak in Texas has residents in nearby states on high alert

Measles, a contagious disease that causes fever, rash, and sometimes serious health problems, is making a comeback in the United States.

This year, 164 people across the country have gotten sick with measles, and health experts are warning that Arkansas and Oklahoma could be next. The reason? Not enough people are getting vaccinated, leaving communities at risk.

Texas is seeing the biggest outbreak right now, with 124 cases and sadly, one child who passed away. Since Arkansas and Oklahoma are nearby, folks in both states are getting worried.

Measles spreads easily through the air--when someone coughs or sneezes, tiny germs can float around and make others sick. In Oklahoma, only about 91% of people have the measles vaccine, and in some parts of Arkansas, that number is even lower. Experts say at least 95% need the shot to keep measles from spreading.

Dr. George Monks, a doctor in Oklahoma, said, “It’s only a matter of time before measles reaches us if we don’t act.” That’s a big deal because measles isn’t just a little cold—it can send people to the hospital. For every five unvaccinated people who catch it, one might end up really sick with things like pneumonia or even brain swelling.

In Arkansas, places like Sebastian, Crawford , Benton and Washington counties are on high alert. The dry weather lately doesn’t cause measles, but it keeps people indoors more, where the disease can spread faster.

Over in Oklahoma, counties like Sequoyah and LeFlore are nervous too, especially since they’re close to states already dealing with cases.

If measles shows up, schools might have to close, and families could be asked to stay home to stop it from getting worse.

The good news is that the measles vaccine is super effective. Getting two doses protects you almost completely. Doctors are encouraging everyone—kids and adults—to make sure they’re vaccinated.

“It’s an easy way to stay safe,” said a health worker in Fort Smith. “We can stop this if we work together.”

For now, people in Arkansas and Oklahoma are keeping their fingers crossed that measles stays away. But with cases so close, everyone’s being extra careful. Health officials say the best thing we can do is get vaccinated and watch out for each other.