The measles outbreak affecting Texas and New Mexico has now exceeded 300 cases, surpassing the 285 measles cases reported in the United States last year.
The Texas Department of State Health Services (DSHS) reported 279 measles cases in the state, an increase of 20 from its previous count, according to a March 18 update.
The outbreak remains concentrated in Gaines County, where cases have risen from 174 to 191, per DSHS. Hospitalizations have also increased from 34 to 36.
“Due to the highly contagious nature of this disease, additional cases are likely to occur in the outbreak area and the surrounding communities,” DSHS said in a statement, adding that it is working with local health departments to investigate the outbreak….