A measles outbreak in the South Plains of Texas has seen a rapid increase in cases, doubling in less than a week. The Texas Department of State Health Services (DSHS) reports at least 48 cases with symptom onset within the past three weeks, leading to over a dozen hospitalizations. The outbreak primarily affects unvaccinated or undervaccinated school-aged children in Gaines County, with additional cases appearing in Lynn, Terry, and Yoakum counties. Due to measles' highly contagious nature, health officials anticipate further spread in the region. This surge in cases follows a declaration of measles elimination in the U.S. in 2000. Measles is a serious respiratory illness transmissible through direct contact or airborne spread. The virus can linger in the air for up to two hours after an infected person leaves an area. Common symptoms include high fever, cough, runny nose, watery eyes, and a distinctive rash that starts on the face and spreads down the body. Individuals suspecting measles infection should isolate themselves and contact their doctor before seeking testing. Vaccination with the measles-mumps-rubella (MMR) vaccine is the most effective preventive measure.