Harris County Public Health Urges Vaccination During World Immunization Week Amid Texas Measles Outbreak
As communities around the globe observe World Immunization Week from April 24–30, Harris County Public Health (HCPH) is stepping up efforts to raise awareness about the importance of vaccines in preventing illness, protecting public health, and creating resilient communities. The 2025 campaign, themed One World, Global Immunization, Protecting All, comes at a time when Texas is confronting a growing measles outbreak.
“Vaccines are one of the most successful and cost-effective public health interventions in history,” said Roselyn Ruth, Director of Nursing for HCPH. “They have dramatically reduced the burden of infectious diseases, saved millions of lives, and prevented countless illnesses and disabilities. World Immunization Week represents an important opportunity for community members to see the effectiveness of vaccines. It’s vital to ensure all of Harris County has access to these life-saving tools.”
Why Vaccination Matters More Than Ever
The urgent need for immunization awareness is underscored by a measles outbreak in West Texas, where 624 cases have been confirmed since late January. The outbreak has tragically resulted in the deaths of two unvaccinated school-aged children. While most cases are concentrated in counties like Lubbock, Dawson, and Yoakum, four measles cases have also been reported in Harris County in 2025, reinforcing the need for local vigilance and vaccine outreach.
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), two doses of the MMR (measles-mumps-rubella) vaccine are 97% effective, and one dose is 93% effective at preventing measles. Even if you’re not sure of your vaccination status, you can check with your doctor or local health department—or consider revaccination as a protective measure.
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HCPH Takes Action in Harris County
To protect residents and encourage informed decision-making, Harris County Public Health is spearheading several initiatives during World Immunization Week and beyond. These include:
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Social media campaigns sharing information about recommended childhood and adult vaccinations
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Pop-up clinics and community health events in partnership with local organizations
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Educational outreach sessions to increase awareness about herd immunity and disease prevention
“We urge everyone in Harris County to talk to their healthcare provider about their vaccination needs,” Ruth added. “Vaccination is a shared responsibility, and by working together, we can create a healthier and more resilient Harris County for all.”
How to Get Vaccinated in the Houston Area
For those Googling “Where can I get vaccinated in Houston?” or “Measles shots near me,” there are multiple accessible options:
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Pediatricians and primary care physicians can provide vaccinations or refer patients.
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Pharmacies and urgent care centers in the Houston area frequently offer MMR and other vaccines.
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Harris County Public Health offers information, assistance, and free or low-cost vaccines. Visit hcphtx.org/Vaccines or call 823-927-7350.
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The CDC’s Vaccine Finder tool can help locate vaccination services by zip code at vaccines.gov.
Who Needs to Be Vaccinated?
The CDC recommends:
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Children receive two doses of the MMR vaccine: one between 12–15 months and a second dose between 4–6 years.
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Teens and adults receive one or two doses based on risk and exposure history.
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International travelers, including infants as young as six months, should be fully vaccinated before traveling.
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Those born before 1957 are generally considered protected due to natural exposure prior to the vaccine era.
If you’re unsure of your vaccination status, ask your healthcare provider about accessing records or getting an MMR titer blood test to assess immunity.
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A Call for Collective Action
As part of the global health community, Harris County is committed to advancing equitable access to vaccines and strengthening trust in science-based public health practices.
HCPH reminds residents that vaccines do more than protect individuals—they create a shield of protection that benefits entire communities. With the ongoing measles outbreak and the challenges of misinformation, World Immunization Week is not just a campaign—it’s a call to action.
For the latest updates, resources, or to find a vaccination clinic near you, visit hcphtx.org/Vaccines.
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.
