- An adult with measles attended a Texas Rangers baseball game, thus linking measles cases and the crowd at Rangers stadium, exposing thousands to the virus.
- Health officials urge attendees to monitor symptoms and ensure vaccinations are current.
- Measles cases are rising across the U.S., with Texas seeing a significant increase in infections.
Health officials in Texas confirmed that an adult with measles attended a major baseball game at Globe Life Field. The game between the Texas Rangers and the Los Angeles Dodgers took place on April 19 and drew a massive crowd of 39,244 fans. The adult, whose identity and vaccination status remain unknown, became the first measles case reported in Denton County this year. This news has sparked fear of a wider outbreak due to the highly contagious nature of the virus and the large number of people potentially exposed at the Rangers game. The infected individual moved around several public locations between April 19 and April 22. This timeline raises concern that others may have come in contact with the virus during that time. Officials have warned everyone who attended the game or visited the same public spots to watch for symptoms immediately.
Health Officials Track Patientโs Public Locations After Game
After attending the event, which has been referred to as โMeasles at Rangers,โ the patient visited multiple places across Denton County. These include Guitars and Growlers in Flower Mound, a Walmart in Lewisville, Rangers Republic at Texas Live! in Arlington, and Pho Tay Do in Richardson. All of these places attract large crowds. The possibility of the virus spreading in these busy venues has alarmed local health experts. Denton County Public Health urged residents to monitor themselves for symptoms for at least 21 days. Symptoms may appear 7 to 14 days after exposure. County officials asked anyone who feels sick to contact a doctor right away. They want to stop further spread before more people get infected.
Measles Spreads Fast and Hits Hard Without Vaccination
Measles spreads when an infected person coughs, sneezes, or even breathes near others. It stays in the air and on surfaces for hours. Experts say measles is the most contagious disease in the world if people are not vaccinated. One person can infect up to 18 others. In contrast, the original COVID-19 strain infected only about two people on average. Measles causes symptoms like fever, cough, runny nose, and small white spots inside the mouth. A red rash usually starts on the face and spreads to the neck, body, arms, legs, and feet. Some patients develop ear infections and serious fever. Doctors cannot cure measles. They only treat the symptoms and complications like pneumonia. About one in five unvaccinated people need hospital care. Children face even greater risks.
Texas and Other States See Sharp Rise in Measles Cases
Texas has recorded 663 measles cases this year alone. At least 87 patients needed hospital treatment. Two young unvaccinated girls, aged 6 and 8, died from measles in the state. Across the U.S., the CDC has confirmed more than 800 measles cases in 2024. Three patients have died nationwide. More than 75 percent of the cases involve children under age 19. Nearly all patients were unvaccinated. Only about 1 percent received even one dose of the MMR vaccine. Measles outbreaks, such as those started by incidents like measles cases at Rangers games, are also growing in New Mexico, Kansas, and Ohio. Other affected states include California, Florida, Georgia, Illinois, and New York.
Vaccination Offers Strong Protection Against Measles
Health experts urge everyone to get vaccinated. Dr. Matt Richardson, Director of Denton County Public Health, reminded the public how serious the virus is. He said vaccines remain the best defense. Dr. Richardson also asked people to get tested if they notice symptoms after the โMeasles at Rangersโ exposure. The MMR vaccine protects against measles, mumps, and rubella. One dose gives 93% protection. Two doses offer 97% protection. Children should get their first dose between 12 to 15 months of age. They should get the second dose between 4 to 6 years old. Babies as young as 6 months should get vaccinated if traveling internationally. Adults should check their vaccination records to make sure they are protected.
Measles Makes a Dangerous Comeback After Years of Control
The U.S. officially eliminated measles in 2000 thanks to a strong vaccination campaign. But in recent years, measles has returned. Experts blame vaccine hesitancy and false information. When fewer people get vaccinated, the virus finds new victims. Thatโs why this case in Texas is so concerning. The last time measles spread this widely was in 2019, when a similar measles exposure occurred at Rangers Stadium. That year, the U.S. saw 1,274 cases. Before that, 1990 brought over 27,000 cases. If vaccination rates continue to fall, numbers could rise again to dangerous levels.
What To Do If You Attended the April 19 Baseball Game
If you attended the April 19 baseball game where the measles exposure at Rangers occurred, take action now. Watch for symptoms such as fever, cough, and rash. Contact your doctor right away if you feel sick. Let them know you may have been exposed to measles. This helps protect others and stops the virus from spreading. Check your vaccine records. Make sure you and your children received two doses of the MMR vaccine. If not, schedule an appointment with your healthcare provider. Getting vaccinated not only protects you, but also protects your community.
