HOUSTON – The Houston Health Department confirms a case of measles in an infant as the city’s third case of the illness in 2025.
According to the health department, the infant, who was unvaccinated, was exposed to measles during international travel.
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The infant was hospitalized, but has since been discharged and is recovering at home.
The health department says the case is not connected to the outbreak in West Texas and is not related to the two earlier cases reported in Houston in January.
The department says they are actively investigating the case and is working to identify anyone who may have been exposed to help prevent it from spreading.
“Measles is a highly contagious virus that spreads through respiratory droplets from coughing and sneezing. Symptoms typically appear 7 to 14 days after exposure and include high fever, cough, runny nose, red eyes, and a distinctive rash. Serious complications can occur, especially in young children and those with weakened immune systems,” the health department said.
Dr. David Persse, Chief Medical Officer for the City of Houston emphasized the importance of vaccination in preventing the spread of measles. “The best way to protect yourself and your loved ones from measles is through vaccination. The MMR (measles, mumps, and rubella) vaccine is safe, highly effective, and remains the best defense against this potentially severe disease.”
Health officials encourage parents to ensure their children receive the MMR vaccine on schedule. The first dose is recommended at 12 to 15 months of age, with a second dose at 4 to 6 years. Your healthcare provider can help you determine if early vaccination is appropriate. “Although measles was declared eliminated in the U.S. in 2000, international travel continues to present a risk. Staying up to date on vaccinations helps protect both individuals and the broader community,” added Dr. Persse.
HHD is actively monitoring the situation and urges anyone who develops symptoms of measles to contact their healthcare provider before visiting a medical facility to prevent potential exposure to others. For more information on measles and vaccination, visit HoustonHealth.Org or call the Health Department at: 832.393.4220.