Measles Outbreak in Texas

What Students Need to Know   

We are monitoring the measles outbreak in Texas. Most of the cases are in far west Texas, but there is now at least one reported case in the Dallas area (Rockwall County). More cases can be expected, so it’s important to stay informed and take appropriate precautions.

For the latest case numbers, please visit the .

What is Measles?   

Measles (rubeola) is a highly contagious virus that spreads through coughing and sneezing and infected surfaces. Symptoms include:   

  • High fever   
  • Runny nose   
  • Red, watery eyes   
  • Sore throat with white spots   
  • A rash which breaks out 3 – 5 days after symptoms appear and spreads across the body   

In severe cases, measles can lead to serious complications like pneumonia, brain inflammation (encephalitis), seizures, and even death. Several individuals have been hospitalized due to the outbreak.

How to Protect Yourself   

There is no cure for measles, but the MMR vaccine (measles, mumps, and rubella) provides strong protection:   

  • 1 dose = About 93% protection   
  • 2 doses = About 97% protection

*A booster shot is not needed; If you have been vaccinated, you do not need an additional MMR vaccination.

The recent cases in Texas were all in unvaccinated individuals, some of whom grew up outside the U.S. A large majority of ÃÛÌÒ½´students have already been vaccinated as a condition for enrollment.  However, if you are unsure of your vaccination status, check your childhood vaccine records or talk to the Dr. Bob Smith Health Center.

CDC Guidelines for College Students  

If you haven’t been vaccinated or don’t have proof of immunity, you should get two doses of the MMR vaccine, at least 28 days apart.   Please note, if you have already been vaccinated for measles, it is not necessary to receive another MMR vaccination. 

Where to Get the Vaccine

💉 Dr. Bob Smith Health Center

  • MMR vaccines available at the clinic
  • Call 214-768-2143 to schedule an appointment

💉 Dallas County Health and Human Services

  • Main clinic location (only for those who’ve never had a dose)
  • Location: 2377 N. Stemmons Freeway, Dallas, TX 75207
  • Phone: 214-819-2163

Who Should NOT Get the Vaccine?   

Some people should avoid the MMR vaccine, including:
🚫 Those with a severe allergy to ingredients like neomycin   
🚫 Pregnant individuals   
🚫 People with immune system issues (such as HIV or cancer treatments)   
🚫 People born before 1957 are considered naturally immune

What to Do if You Feel Sick or Were Exposed   

If you develop symptoms or have been exposed to measles:

🔹 Stay home and isolate yourself.
🔹 Call the Dr. Bob Smith Health Center or an urgent care clinic for guidance. A telemedicine visit may be recommended to prevent spreading the virus.

Reminder: Measles symptoms can take 5 to 21 days to appear after exposure.