Harris County Investigates Measles Case in Unvaccinated Child with No Travel History
Harris County Public Health (HCPH) is currently investigating a confirmed case of measles in a child under 18 years old who lives in northwest Harris County, the department announced this week. The case, confirmed by a commercial laboratory, involves a child with no recent travel history, raising concerns about potential local transmission of the highly contagious virus.
While secondary confirmation from the Texas Department of State Health Services (DSHS) is still pending—standard protocol in infectious disease investigations—HCPH has already begun contact tracing efforts to identify individuals who may have been exposed to the child.
“Measles is a highly contagious respiratory disease caused by a virus, which spreads through coughing and sneezing. This is a great reminder about the importance of keeping children up to date with vaccines,” said Dr. Ericka Brown, Local Health Authority for HCPH. “Measles is easily preventable through vaccination.”
This is the first measles investigation in unincorporated Harris County since 2019, when four individuals were diagnosed. As of April 1, 2025, DSHS has reported 422 measles cases across Texas—a sharp uptick that reflects a growing public health concern, particularly in communities with low vaccination rates.
What to Know About Measles in Harris County
For Harris County residents—especially parents in West Houston, Cypress, and surrounding areas—the news highlights the importance of understanding measles symptoms, prevention, and vaccination guidelines.
Measles symptoms typically begin with:
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High fever
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Runny nose
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Cough
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Red, watery eyes
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Sore throat
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Followed 3–5 days later by a distinctive rash
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), measles is one of the most contagious viruses in the world. If one person is infected, nine out of 10 unvaccinated individuals nearby are likely to contract the virus.
Complications from measles can be serious. Approximately one in four people with measles require hospitalization. In rare cases, measles can cause brain swelling or even death.
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How to Protect Yourself and Your Family
The measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR) vaccine is the best defense against the virus. The CDC recommends the following vaccine schedule for children:
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First dose: 12 through 15 months of age
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Second dose: 4 through 6 years of age
Immunization is especially critical for children, but adults who are unsure of their vaccination status should also consult with a healthcare provider.
“The best way to protect yourself and your family against measles and other vaccine-preventable diseases is by immunization,” HCPH emphasized in its announcement.
Where to Get Vaccinated in Harris County
Residents can schedule a vaccine appointment by calling HCPH at 832-927-7350 or visiting the Harris County Public Health website. Local health clinics provide MMR vaccines and can answer questions about immunization records.
For a full list of recommended vaccinations for children and adults, visit the CDC’s official vaccination schedule or speak directly with a healthcare provider.
Public Health Response and Community Awareness
HCPH has not released the identity of the infected child in accordance with patient privacy laws. However, the department stresses that quick and thorough contact tracing is already underway to mitigate further spread.
This incident reinforces the critical role of vaccinations in preventing outbreaks of diseases that had once been nearly eradicated in the U.S. Measles was declared eliminated in the U.S. in 2000, but declining immunization rates in recent years have led to a resurgence in some states.
As local health officials continue their investigation, they urge residents to treat this case as a timely reminder of how preventative care through immunization plays a crucial role in protecting communities.
Tiffany Krenek has been on the My Neighborhood News team since August 2021. She is passionate about curating and sharing content that enriches the lives of our readers in a personal, meaningful way. A loving mother and wife, Tiffany and her family live in the West Houston/Cypress region.