Measles, a highly contagious viral illness once considered nearly eradicated in many parts of the world, has resurged in recent years. Texas, Mexico, and Canada are now facing localized outbreaks, raising alarms among public health experts. This resurgence highlights gaps in vaccination coverage, cross-border transmission risks, and the challenges of maintaining herd immunity. Let’s unpack what’s happening, why it matters, and how communities can protect themselves.
In early 2025, health officials in Texas reported a cluster of measles cases linked to unvaccinated travelers returning from regions with active outbreaks. Measles spreads through airborne particles, making it one of the most infectious diseases known—a single infected person can transmit the virus to up to 18 others in a susceptible population. Symptoms typically begin with a high fever, cough, runny nose, and red, watery eyes, followed by a distinctive rash that spreads across the body. While most people recover, complications like pneumonia, encephalitis, or severe dehydration can occur, particularly in children under five, adults over 20, and those with weakened immune systems.
Texas has seen a gradual decline in measles-mumps-rubella (MMR) vaccination rates over the past decade, with some counties reporting coverage as low as 85%, well below the 95% threshold required for herd immunity. Public health experts attribute this drop to vaccine hesitancy fueled by misinformation, logistical barriers in rural areas, and a lack of awareness about measles’ severity. Dr. Laura Simmons, an epidemiologist at the University of Texas, explains, “When vaccination rates dip, even slightly, it creates pockets of vulnerability. Measles exploits those gaps relentlessly.”
The situation in Mexico mirrors these challenges. While the country has historically maintained strong immunization programs, economic disparities and uneven access to healthcare have left certain communities underserved. A recent outbreak in northern Mexico, near the Texas border, has been tied to low MMR uptake in rural towns. Cross-border travel between Texas and Mexico—whether for work, tourism, or family visits—has further complicated containment efforts. “Viruses don’t respect borders,” says Dr. Carlos Mendez, a Mexican infectious disease specialist. “An outbreak in one region can quickly become a binational crisis without coordinated action.”
Canada, meanwhile, is grappling with its own measles concerns. Cases have emerged in provinces like Ontario and Alberta, primarily among unvaccinated or partially vaccinated individuals. Canada’s overall MMR coverage remains high at 90%, but certain communities, including some religious and immigrant groups, report lower rates due to cultural beliefs or mistrust in healthcare systems. In one case study, a 2024 outbreak in a Toronto school affected 22 students, all of whom were unvaccinated. The incident reignited debates about mandating vaccines for school enrollment, a policy already in place in provinces like New Brunswick and Manitoba.
The economic and social costs of measles outbreaks are staggering. A 2023 study published in The Lancet estimated that a single measles case incurs an average of $32,000 in direct medical costs and lost productivity. For hospitals, outbreaks strain resources: infected individuals require isolation rooms, specialized care, and contact tracing. During a 2025 outbreak in Houston, one hospital reported diverting non-emergency patients to other facilities to manage the surge.
Vaccination remains the most effective defense. The MMR vaccine, first introduced in the 1970s, is 97% effective at preventing measles with two doses. Global vaccination efforts have saved an estimated 31 million lives since 2000, according to the World Health Organization (WHO). However, misinformation continues to erode public confidence. False claims linking the vaccine to autism—thoroughly debunked by decades of research—still circulate online, often targeting new parents. Combating these myths requires proactive communication. “We need to meet people where they are,” says Priya Kapoor, a public health educator in Calgary. “That means addressing concerns empathetically, sharing data in clear terms, and involving trusted community leaders.”
Schools and childcare centers are critical battlegrounds. In Texas, state law allows exemptions from vaccine requirements for medical, religious, or philosophical reasons. Counties with high exemption rates, such as Travis and Williamson, have seen measles cases triple compared to areas with stricter policies. Some experts argue for tightening exemption rules, citing success in states like California and New York, where outbreaks prompted lawmakers to eliminate non-medical exemptions.
International collaboration is equally vital. The U.S., Mexico, and Canada have strengthened data-sharing agreements to track cross-border transmission since the 2025 outbreaks. Mobile vaccination clinics in high-risk areas, multilingual public service announcements, and partnerships with community organizations have also shown promise. For example, a joint initiative between Texas health agencies and Mexican border towns vaccinated over 15,000 people in early 2025, curbing spread in the region.
For individuals, staying informed is key. The CDC advises checking vaccination records to ensure two MMR doses (one for children aged 12–15 months, another at 4–6 years). Adults unsure of their immunity can request a blood test to confirm antibody levels. During outbreaks, avoiding crowded spaces and monitoring for symptoms is prudent. International travelers should consult health advisories—measles remains endemic in parts of Africa, Asia, and Europe, and the virus can easily hitch a ride on global flights.
Public trust in health institutions plays a pivotal role. Restoring this trust requires transparency, accessibility, and cultural competence. In Canada, Indigenous health workers have led vaccination drives in remote First Nations communities, blending Western medicine with traditional healing practices. Similarly, Mexico’s “Vaccine con Confianza” (Vaccinate with Confidence) campaign features local influencers and doctors answering questions on social media.
The measles resurgence in Texas, Mexico, and Canada is a wake-up call. It underscores the importance of sustained vaccination efforts, equitable healthcare access, and global cooperation. As Dr. Simmons notes, “Measles is a preventable tragedy. Every case represents a missed opportunity to protect someone.” By addressing vaccine hesitancy, closing immunity gaps, and prioritizing science, communities can turn the tide against this ancient yet persistent threat.