Stopping Measles Starts Here: Protecting Children Through Vaccination

In the face of a growing measles outbreak in Texas and across the United States, Legacy Community Health is committed to safeguarding children and our broader community.  

We know that some parents have concerns about the MMR vaccine and autism. But according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the American Academy of Pediatrics, extensive research has found no link between the MMR vaccine and autism. The original study that raised the issue was retracted, and no credible scientific evidence supports the claim. 

While there are currently no active measles cases in Houston or Harris County, now is the time to act, not wait. 

Why This Matters Now 

Measles is one of the most contagious viruses in the world, with one infected person able to spread it to up to 18 others, according to the Centers for Disease Control. Though measles was declared eliminated in the U.S. in 2000, vaccination rates have declined in some communities, making outbreaks possible again. 

In Texas, an outbreak that began in West Texas has grown to more than 700 confirmed cases, per the Texas Department of State Health Services. Tragically, two unvaccinated children have died from measles-related complications. 

Globally, 22 million children missed their first measles vaccine dose in 2023, according to the World Health Organization (WHO), leaving millions more vulnerable to a disease that is entirely preventable. 

Vaccines Work 

According to the World Health Organization, vaccines have saved 154 million lives in the last 50 years. That’s six lives every minute. The measles vaccine alone accounts for 60% of those lives saved. 

It’s simple: vaccines work. They prevent disease, reduce hospitalizations, and save lives, especially among children who are too young to be vaccinated themselves. 

What You Need to Know About the MMR Vaccine 

• Safe & Effective: The CDC states that two doses of the MMR vaccine are 97% effective at preventing measles.
   

• Timing Matters: Children should receive the first dose at 12 months, and the second between ages 4 and 6.
   

• Free for Families: Legacy offers free vaccines through our community clinics for children who are uninsured, underinsured, or on Medicaid. As Dr. Sandra Cohan, Pediatric Medical Director at Legacy, says, “at Legacy, we value that health care is a right, not a privilege. We believe that comprehensive health care is a human right. Legacy’s services and programs are open to all who need us, regardless of the ability to pay, without judgment or exception.”
   

• Protects the Vulnerable: Babies under 12 months can’t be vaccinated, so herd immunity is critical. That means the more people who are vaccinated, the less chance measles has to spread. 

“Most adults need one or two doses of the MMR vaccine unless they have had measles in the past or were born before 1957, as they are likely already immune,” said Dr. Cohan

Symptoms and Risks of Measles 

Measles isn’t just a rash or a fever. It can be serious and even deadly. Symptoms include: 

• High fever 

• Red, sandpaper-like rash 

• Runny nose 

• Red, watery eyes 

• Spots in the mouth 

Roughly 1 in 1,000 cases can lead to brain inflammation, and other complications include pneumonia, hearing loss, and, in rare cases, death. 

Taking Action Locally 

At Legacy, we’re proud to be working alongside the City of Houston and Harris County Public Health to help stop the spread of measles.  

Legacy has hosted free MMR vaccination events at our Fifth Ward and Southwest Houston clinics, and we’re also out in the community, visiting schools, daycares, shelters, and neighborhoods.  

Our mobile teams are making sure that families who might have trouble getting to a clinic still have easy access to these important vaccines. It’s all about making sure every child has the chance to stay healthy and protected. 

“Our clinicians review each patient’s vaccine records and recommend an MMR update when immunization is incomplete,” says Dr. Cohan. This personalized approach helps us identify gaps in coverage and provide trusted medical guidance. 

Let’s Talk About Misinformation 

Unfortunately, vaccine myths are spreading as fast as the virus itself. The rise in non-medical exemptions, including in Texas, has opened the door for diseases like measles, whooping cough, and even polio to re-emerge. We encourage families to get their information from credible sources like CDC, WHO, and trusted medical professionals, not social media or hearsay. 

How You Can Help 

• Check your child’s vaccination status. 

• Talk to your pediatrician if you have questions or concerns. 

• Get your child vaccinated. It’s never too late to catch up. 

• Call 832-548-5000 or visit legacycommunityhealth.org for info or to make an appointment. 

The best protection is prevention. Together, we can keep our community healthy.