Summary

Rural Texas is struggling to contain its worst measles outbreak in 30 years due to crumbling public health infrastructure, hospital shortages, and limited medical staff.

The outbreak, concentrated in unvaccinated communities, has sickened nearly 200 people and caused one child’s death.

Local health officials rely on makeshift solutions and long-distance testing while facing slow state and federal support.

Funding from pandemic-era grants helped some areas, but overall investment remains low, leaving rural communities vulnerable to future outbreaks.

Experts warn proactive vaccination efforts should have started earlier.