Health officials in New Mexico have reported a possible second U.S. measles-related death this year after a resident tested positive for the virus posthumously.
The New Mexico Department of Health (NMDOH) confirmed on Thursday that the individual was unvaccinated. However, the official cause of death is still under investigation.
First U.S. Measles Death in a Decade
Earlier this year, a school-aged child in Texas became the first recorded U.S. measles fatality in a decade, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).
Health officials believe the New Mexico and Texas outbreaks may be linked, though no direct connection has been confirmed yet.
Growing Measles Cases in New Mexico and Texas
New Mexico has reported 10 cases so far in 2025, with most occurring in Lea County, which borders western Texas.
Meanwhile, the Texas outbreak has surged to 159 confirmed cases, according to new data released Tuesday.
- 80 cases involved unvaccinated individuals
- 74 cases involve individuals with an unknown vaccination status
- 22 people have been hospitalized
Children and Teens at Highest Risk
According to the Texas Department of State Health Services (DSHS):
- Children aged 5-17 account for 74 cases
- Children aged 4 and under account for 53 cases
The CDC has confirmed 164 measles cases nationwide so far, spanning nine states:
- Alaska
- California
- Georgia
- Kentucky
- New Jersey
- New Mexico
- New York
- Rhode Island
- Texas
However, this figure is considered an undercount, as some states experience delays in reporting.
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Health Officials Urge Vaccination
With cases rising, health officials are urging unvaccinated individuals to receive the measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR) vaccine.
The CDC recommends:
- First dose: Ages 12 to 15 months
- Second dose: Between 4 and 6 years old
- Effectiveness:
- One dose: 93% protection
- Two doses: 97% protection
“We don’t want to see New Mexicans getting sick or dying from measles,” said Dr. Chad Smelser, deputy state epidemiologist for NMDOH. “The MMR vaccine is the best protection against this serious disease.”
Most vaccinated adults do not require a booster shot.
