Measles Case Reported in Travis County

AUSTIN, Texas — Austin Public Health confirms the first reported case of measles in Travis County since 2025. The case involves an unvaccinated adult male who was exposed to the virus while traveling internationally. 

The patient visited the following location while they were infectious: 

• St. David’s Emergency Center (13435 N Highway 183, Ste 311, Austin, TX 78750) on Monday, May 4, from 11 a.m. - 1:30 p.m. 

People who have potentially come into close contact with the patient are being contacted.

“Measles has returned to our community, posing a serious threat to anyone who is unvaccinated, especially young children, pregnant women and anyone who is immunocompromised,” said Dr. Desmar Walkes, Austin-Travis County Health Authority. “If you haven’t gotten vaccinated already, now is the time. Measles is more than just a rash; it can put you in the hospital and can even be deadly.” 

The best way to protect yourself from measles is to receive the measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR) vaccine. Two doses of the MMR vaccine are required to receive full protection. 

The MMR vaccine is offered at doctors’ offices and pharmacies. Children under the age of 14 will require a prescription from a doctor to receive the vaccine at a pharmacy. Austin Public Health offers the MMR vaccine at its Shots for Tots and Big Shots clinics. 

Measles is highly contagious and is spread through the air when an infected person coughs or sneezes. The disease can actively linger in the air and on surfaces for up to two hours.  If someone breathes contaminated air or touches infected surfaces and then their eyes, nose, or mouth, they can become infected. 

If one person has it, up to 9 out of 10 people nearby will become infected if they are not protected.  

Symptoms

Measles symptoms appear 7 to 14 days after contact with the virus. Common measles symptoms include:   

• Fever
• Cough
• Rash
• Red, watery eyes 
• Runny Nose
• Small white spots inside the mouth and throat 

If you believe you may have been exposed to measles, contact your healthcare provider and remain isolated at home. 

Complications

Measles can cause serious health complications and death, especially in children younger than 5 years of age. Common complications are ear infections and diarrhea. Serious complications include pneumonia and encephalitis. 

Who is at risk 

Anyone who is not protected against measles is at risk. Young children, pregnant women and people who are immunocompromised are more likely to experience complications. 

Learn more about the highly contagious virus and what resources are available at Austin Public Health’s Measles page.