Sixth Measles Case Confirmed in Rockwall County Outbreak

A sixth case of measles, all linked to a single family, has been identified in Rockwall County, Texas, health officials announced on Thursday, February 20, 2026. The first case in the family was identified on February 5, 2026, according to a statement from the Rockwall County Health Authority.

Outbreak Details

Since the initial case, five other family members within the same household have contracted the virus. Five of the six individuals have recovered and are no longer contagious. The family had recently returned from international travel, and the measles strain matches a known international version WFAA.

Public Health Response

The Rockwall County Local Health Authority is collaborating with the Rockwall County Office of Emergency Management and the Texas Department of State Health Services to monitor the situation and share information with city and school district officials Rockwall County. The patients were being monitored during a 21-day observation period.

Measles: A Highly Contagious Virus

Measles is a highly contagious viral illness that spreads through respiratory droplets when an infected person coughs or sneezes. It can remain in the air and on surfaces for hours after an infected person has left the area. Last year, a measles outbreak in Gaines County, Texas, spread to Oklahoma and New Mexico, resulting in over 750 cases and tragically, the deaths of two children.

Symptoms of Measles

Typical symptoms of measles include:

• High fever (potentially exceeding 104°F)
• Cough
• Runny nose
• Red, watery eyes
• White spots inside the mouth (Koplik spots)
• A characteristic rash that usually appears three to five days after symptoms begin

Vaccination and Risk

The two-dose MMR (measles, mumps, and rubella) vaccine is 97% effective in preventing measles. Health experts recommend the first dose between 12 and 15 months of age, and the second dose between 4 and 6 years old Rockwall County.

Individuals at higher risk of contracting measles include:

• Young children who have not received both doses of the MMR vaccine
• Unvaccinated individuals or those unsure of their vaccination status
• Individuals with weakened immune systems

Vaccination is not recommended for pregnant women or individuals with compromised immune systems.

Key Takeaways

• Six cases of measles have been confirmed in a single family in Rockwall County, Texas.
• The outbreak is linked to international travel.
• The MMR vaccine is highly effective in preventing measles.
• Individuals with weakened immune systems and unvaccinated children are at higher risk.