Lubbock can now proudly add “measles hotspot” to the résumé. The Texas Department of State Health Services says there are 729 confirmed cases in the West Texas outbreak, with Lubbock standing shoulder-to-shoulder with six other counties you’ve probably only heard of when they make the weather map.
Since January, two kids have already died—both unvaccinated, both school-aged. But sure, keep arguing on Facebook about “personal choice” while your neighbor’s kid ends up in the ICU. Speaking of hospitals, 94 people have been admitted during the outbreak, which is a great way to stress-test our already overworked health system.
The state notes fewer than 10 cases are still considered actively infectious, but given how contagious measles is, that’s like saying, “Don’t worry, it’s only a few matches left in this box of dynamite.” If you want the vaccine, DSHS will gladly point you in the right direction—assuming you can pull yourself away from your anti-vax Facebook group long enough to roll up a sleeve.
Lubbock, where we’re apparently speedrunning diseases eradicated decades ago. What’s next—polio parties at Buffalo Springs Lake?
