As North Texas families prepare for spring break, health officials are raising concerns about the potential spread of measles. With cases rising in West Texas, doctors worry that increased travel could contribute to further outbreaks.
At least one North Texas school district, Garland ISD, is taking preventive measures by offering measles vaccinations to students who need them.
During the COVID-19 pandemic, health officials closely monitored post-spring break surges in infections. Now, with measles cases on the rise, experts are urging families to take precautions before traveling.
DFW Hospital Council President Stephen Love emphasized the risk, especially in communities with lower vaccination rates. He noted that while no cases have been reported in Tarrant County yet, the potential for spread remains.
“We have some pockets of unvaccinated individuals, and with increased travel during spring break, there is a distinct possibility that measles could spread,” Love said.
Health officials are particularly concerned about certain areas in Tarrant and Dallas counties, where vaccination rates have dipped below the recommended 95% needed to prevent outbreaks.
Despite no confirmed measles cases in North Texas, the Texas Department of State Health Services (DSHS) has named Tarrant County as one of three areas increasing testing efforts. The county’s public health lab, which serves 30 counties, will play a crucial role in monitoring potential cases.
To help prevent the spread, Garland ISD will hold a measles vaccination clinic on Thursday from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. at its student services center. Students must have a parent or guardian present and schedule an appointment in advance.
The larger measles outbreak in Texas has primarily affected unvaccinated individuals in West Texas, with nearly 200 cases reported. DSHS data shows that at least 80 patients were unvaccinated, while vaccination status remains unknown for over 100 others.
Health officials continue to monitor the situation and urge families to ensure their children are vaccinated before traveling.
