The ongoing measles outbreak has reached alarming levels, particularly in Texas where cases have surpassed 600, predominantly affecting children and teens. The Texas health department reports a total of 624 cases, marking the largest single outbreak in the Southwest since 2000. Nationally, measles cases have climbed to 800 across 25 states, with Texas accounting for a significant portion of cases. Health officials are urging parents to ensure their children are vaccinated as the outbreak spreads and acknowledging that vaccine hesitancy may contribute to the rising infection rates. The CDC emphasizes the importance of vaccination, especially in light of recent funding cuts to vaccine clinics that could exacerbate the situation.