NATION — In late April 2025, Texas health officials confirmed a disturbing rise in measles cases, with over 650 reported and three fatalities linked to the virus. This alarming surge marks a significant increase in cases compared to the previous year, and health experts are now warning that the highly contagious disease is spreading to neighboring states like New Mexico and Oklahoma, which is raising concerns across the Southwest, including in Arizona. Although no measles cases have been reported in Arizona yet, experts are urging caution, particularly in light of the state’s relatively low vaccination rates.
Measles was once considered nearly eradicated in the United States, but the resurgence of the virus underscores vulnerabilities, particularly in communities where vaccination rates remain below the 95% threshold needed for herd immunity. In Arizona, some rural counties, including Mohave, have measles vaccination rates that fall well below this critical level. Data from the state show that about 76% of kindergartners in Mohave County are fully vaccinated, a stark contrast to areas where coverage exceeds 90%. These lower vaccination rates in Mohave County put the area at risk should the virus reach the state.
The current outbreak in Texas is particularly concerning for Arizona due to its proximity and the flow of people between the states. While no local measles cases have been confirmed yet, the state’s health department has advised residents, especially parents of young children, to check immunization records and ensure that they are up to date. In particular, the two-dose measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR) vaccine is recommended for all children, with the first dose typically administered at 1 year old and the second dose at 4-6 years of age.
Arizona health officials have been working closely with local schools and pediatricians to increase awareness and encourage vaccinations. The state’s public health campaigns are also focusing on communities with lower vaccination rates, including some rural areas and Native American reservations, where access to healthcare and vaccination services can be limited.
Though Mohave County is far removed from the epicenter of the outbreak in Texas, the county’s residents, especially those in schools and daycare centers, could be vulnerable to an importation of the virus. Experts note that measles is highly contagious—an infected person can spread the virus to nine out of ten unvaccinated individuals they come into contact with. In addition, the disease can cause severe complications, particularly for young children, the elderly, and those with compromised immune systems. Complications from measles can include pneumonia, brain swelling, and even death, especially in individuals who have not been vaccinated.
If the virus were to arrive in Arizona, it could cause significant disruptions. Schools and childcare centers would likely close temporarily, and healthcare systems could be strained as they respond to an increase in cases. It is vital that Arizona residents remain vigilant, especially as warmer weather brings more visitors to the state, including seasonal workers from areas affected by the outbreak. Health officials have emphasized that early diagnosis and isolation of infected individuals are critical to controlling the spread of the disease.
For Mohave County, the challenge is twofold: not only is there a need to ensure that children are vaccinated, but there is also a broader need to increase public awareness of the importance of immunization. While vaccines are widely available at local health departments and pharmacies, a concerted effort is needed to reach those who remain unvaccinated or under-vaccinated, particularly in areas where misinformation about vaccines persists.
In addition to vaccination efforts, public health officials are also preparing to launch education campaigns aimed at informing residents about the symptoms of measles and the importance of early medical intervention. These campaigns will be critical as measles cases increase nationwide and as the risk of the virus spreading to Arizona becomes more pronounced.
Ultimately, the best defense against measles is vaccination. For residents of Mohave County, staying informed and ensuring that children are up to date with their immunizations could make all the difference in preventing the spread of this dangerous and highly contagious disease. With Texas and neighboring states battling rising cases, Arizona is on high alert, and residents are urged to take action now before it’s too late.
—Stephen Lightman
