AUSTIN, Texas – Austin Public Health (APH) has detected traces of measles through wastewater surveillance in Travis County. Residents are encouraged to get up to date with their measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR) vaccine to protect themselves and stop the spread of this vaccine-preventable disease.

“This is just another important reminder on why we all need to get vaccinated against measles,” said Austin-Travis County Health Authority Dr. Desmar Walkes. “While we haven’t experienced an outbreak here in our community, it can only be a matter of time if we leave ourselves unprotected. Getting vaccinated helps to keep you, your family and your friends safe from disease.”

Traces of the measles virus were detected through wastewater surveillance from the first week of July, and APH was notified of the results on July 18. 

To date, two Travis County residents have tested positive for measles in 2025. Both cases were related to travel.

Prevention

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. APH offers the MMR vaccine for uninsured and underinsured Austinites 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 measles, 9 out of 10 unvaccinated people nearby will become infected if they are not protected. 

Complications

Measles can cause serious health complications and death for all age groups, especially in children younger than 5 years of age and individuals who are not vaccinated. 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. Measles was declared eliminated from the United States in 2000. However, measles is still common in many parts of the world. Every year, measles is brought into the United States by unvaccinated travelers who get measles while they are in other countries. These travelers are mostly Americans and sometimes international visitors. An outbreak of measles has been reported in counties across the state. Individuals planning to travel to any of these areas are advised to consult their healthcare provider for vaccination guidance before traveling.

Young children, pregnant women and people who are immunocompromised are more likely to experience complications. Immunizing individuals who live with those at higher risk plays a vital role in protecting vulnerable populations from severe illness or death. Find the latest information on measles in Austin-Travis County at austintexas.gov/measles.