HOUSTON, Texas – The response to the recent measles outbreak in Texas has been hindered by funding cuts, according to a CDC scientist. With the number of measles cases on the rise, health officials are concerned that many cases may be going unreported, exacerbating the situation.
During a recent hearing of the Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP), the CDC expressed the challenges they are facing in responding to the outbreak, stating that they are “scraping” to keep up. The CDC has also dispatched additional resources to Texas to help contain the outbreak, which has now reached 561 cases.
The CDC’s efforts have been further complicated by underreporting of measles cases, with many cases likely slipping through the cracks. This has raised concerns about the true scale of the outbreak and the potential for further spread of the highly contagious virus.
The situation in Texas serves as a reminder of the importance of vaccination in preventing outbreaks of vaccine-preventable diseases. Health officials are urging the public to ensure that they are up to date on their vaccinations to protect themselves and others from potentially deadly infections like measles.
Despite the challenges posed by funding cuts and underreporting, the CDC remains committed to containing the measles outbreak in Texas and preventing further spread of the virus. They are working closely with state and local health departments to identify and track cases, as well as implementing strategies to increase vaccination rates in affected communities.
As the outbreak continues to unfold, health officials are emphasizing the need for a coordinated and comprehensive response to combat the spread of measles. By working together and prioritizing vaccination efforts, they hope to bring the outbreak under control and prevent future outbreaks from occurring.