North Texas has identified its first case of measles that might be connected to the recent outbreak seen in West Texas, which has grown to more than 550 cases.

The Rockwall County Health Authority, east of Dallas, issued a public health notification on Tuesday, April 15, informing community members of an adult who tested positive for the highly contagious illness last week. Health officials said in February there was another Rockwall County case in an unvaccinated adult, but it did not appear to be connected to the West Texas outbreak, as the person had recently traveled internationally and appeared to catch the illness while abroad. The case announced on Tuesday was for a person who traveled to West Texas recently.

In Tarrant County, there was recent exposure in Grapevine when a person who later tested positive for the illness visited the area between March 28 and March 30.

Health officials reminded people that measles is infectious four days before and four days after a rash appears. The infected person from Rockwall County was at home for most of this period, is no longer infectious and has recovered. Those who were exposed when the person sought medical treatment have been notified. For those who believe they might have been exposed or are experiencing measles symptoms, health officials recommend calling your healthcare provider before visiting in person.

“This situation highlights the ongoing importance of maintaining high vaccination rates in our community to prevent the spread of vaccine-preventable diseases,” said Dr. Dirk Perritt of the Rockwall County Health Authority.

Measles is an airborne illness with symptoms such as high fever, cough, runny nose, red and water eyes, white spots inside the mouth and a rash. Up to nine out of 10 people exposed and unvaccinated against the illness can become infected, according to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

This story was originally published April 16, 2025 at 1:01 PM.

Lina Ruiz

Fort Worth Star-Telegram

Lina Ruiz covers early childhood education in Tarrant County and North Texas for the Fort Worth Star-Telegram. A University of Florida graduate, she previously wrote about local government in South Florida for TCPalm and Treasure Coast Newspapers.