Austin Public Health has confirmed a measles case in Travis County, marking the first instance of the disease since 2025. The patient, an unvaccinated adult male, contracted the virus during international travel.
The individual visited the St. David’s Emergency Center on Anderson Mill Road on Monday between 11 a.m. and 1:30 p.m. while being infectious. Health officials are reaching out to those who may have come into contact with him.
Measles is known to be a highly contagious airborne illness that can result in severe complications or even death, as noted by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Health authorities emphasize that if one person is infected, up to 90% of unprotected individuals nearby may also contract the virus.
Desmar Walkes, the Austin-Travis County Health Authority, highlighted the seriousness of the situation, stating, “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. 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.”
If you suspect you may have been exposed to the virus, Austin Public Health advises contacting your healthcare provider and isolating at home.
