Austin Public Health (APH) has identified traces of measles in Travis County through wastewater surveillance. The public is urged to ensure their measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR) vaccinations are current to prevent the spread of this disease. Dr. Desmar Walkes, Austin-Travis County Health Authority, emphasized the importance of vaccination: “This is just another important reminder on why we all need to get vaccinated against measles.” Although no outbreak has occurred locally, Dr. Walkes warned that it could happen if people remain unvaccinated.
The detection was made during the first week of July, with APH receiving notification on July 18. In 2025, two Travis County residents tested positive for measles due to travel-related exposure.
Vaccination remains the most effective prevention method against measles. Two doses of the MMR vaccine are necessary for full protection and are available at doctors’ offices and pharmacies. Children under 14 require a prescription for pharmacy vaccinations. APH provides vaccines for uninsured and underinsured residents at its clinics.
Measles spreads easily through airborne transmission when an infected person coughs or sneezes. It can remain active in the air and on surfaces for up to two hours, posing a risk to unvaccinated individuals who come into contact with contaminated areas.
Complications from measles can be severe, particularly for children under five and those not vaccinated. These include ear infections, diarrhea, pneumonia, and encephalitis.
Despite being declared eliminated in the U.S. in 2000, measles persists globally and is often reintroduced by travelers from affected regions. Unvaccinated travelers pose a significant risk of spreading the virus upon returning home.
Travelers should consult healthcare providers about vaccination before visiting areas with reported outbreaks. Vulnerable groups such as young children, pregnant women, and immunocompromised individuals face higher risks of complications from measles.
For more information on measles in Austin-Travis County, visit austintexas.gov/measles.
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