Tennessee latest state to record measles case amid U.S. outbreak
The Tennessee Department of Health (TDOH) has confirmed the first case of measles in the state, amidst a recent uptick in cases reported across the country. The individual infected with measles in early March is currently recovering at home, according to a statement released by the government agency. Public health officials are actively working to identify other locations and individuals who may have been exposed to the virus.
TDOH is also conducting an investigation to determine the source of the infection. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has reported over 300 confirmed cases of measles this year, with Texas leading the country with 279 cases as of March 18. Gaines County in Texas alone has reported 191 cases, making it the epicenter of the outbreak. New Mexico follows with the second-highest number of cases at 36.
Other states with confirmed measles cases include California (5), Oklahoma (4), Georgia (3), New York (3), New Jersey (3), Pennsylvania (2), and seven other states with one case each. The CDC emphasizes that the best way to prevent measles is by receiving the two-dose measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR) vaccine.
The recent measles outbreak has reignited debates about vaccines and their effectiveness. Despite the tragic loss of their daughter to the illness, one Texas couple stated that they would still not have vaccinated her against the virus. Measles is characterized by a red rash that typically starts on the face and spreads to the body, accompanied by symptoms like fever, headache, cough, and congestion.
For more information and updates on the measles outbreak, you can visit the Fox News website or download the Fox News app. This article was written by Peter D’Abrosca, a U.S. Crime reporter who joined Fox News Digital in 2025. Prior to this role, he worked as a public relations executive and reporter at The Tennessee Star. Peter is an Elon University graduate and can be followed on X at @pmd_reports. Story tips can be sent to peter.dabrosca@fox.com.
