Recorded measles cases in the U.S. have climbed to a level not seen since the eradication of the disease, according to recent data.
In Texas, the ongoing measles outbreak continues to impact the state significantly. As of early July, Texas has reported over 750 cases, making it the region with the largest share of U.S. cases connected to West Texas[3][2]. The recent trend shows a decline in new cases, with ongoing transmission now limited to three counties: Gaines, Lamar, and Lubbock, with Gaines County being the original epicenter[2].
The majority of those affected were unvaccinated or had unknown vaccination status. Out of 750 cases, 707 were unvaccinated or had unknown status, while only 21 had received two or more doses of the MMR vaccine[2]. This outbreak has resulted in at least 96 hospitalizations and the deaths of two children[3][1].
Health officials in Texas have scaled back their updates to weekly, as the situation improves and the number of outbreak counties decreases[1]. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) continues to recommend MMR vaccination as the best protection against measles, especially in communities with low vaccination rates or close links to outbreak areas[3].
In Seminole, Texas, a health worker administered measles tests outside Seminole Hospital District on February 21. The image of this event was taken by Associated Press (AP) and YONHAP[4][5].
Meanwhile, in South Korea, no recent credible reports or updates from major English-language sources were provided regarding measles outbreaks or new health advisories[6]. Historically, South Korea has maintained high vaccination rates and has not experienced large measles outbreaks in recent years. However, without new data, it is best to check with South Korea’s Korea Disease Control and Prevention Agency (KDCA) for the latest official updates.
A sign was recently visible outside a clinic in Brownfield, Texas, warning travelers returning from countries with measles outbreaks[7]. The location of the clinic is in Brownfield, Texas, and the image of the sign was taken by Associated Press (AP) on February 23[8]. The purpose or context of the sign is not specified in this paragraph.
## Key Takeaways
- **Texas:** Measles cases are declining but remain high, especially in key counties. Unvaccinated individuals are most at risk. Public health officials emphasize vaccination and monitoring. - **South Korea:** No current outbreak or advisory information is available from the provided sources. South Korea’s vaccination programs are generally robust, but for the latest information, consult official national health sources.
| Region | Cases Reported (2025) | Major Outbreak Areas | Health Advisory Status | |-------------|-----------------------|-----------------------------|---------------------------------------| | Texas | >750 | Gaines, Lamar, Lubbock | Weekly updates, MMR vaccine urged[2][3] | | South Korea | Not reported | Not reported | No new advisories in available info |
- The ongoing measles outbreak in Texas, particularly in the counties of Gaines, Lamar, and Lubbock, highlights the importance of vaccination, especially for unvaccinated individuals, due to the high number of cases.
- In South Korea, where vaccination rates are historically high, there is currently no information available about potential measles outbreaks or new health advisories from major English-language sources. It is advisable to consult South Korea’s Korea Disease Control and Prevention Agency for the latest official updates.
