Oklahoma health officials warn of measles risk in low vaccination areas

Measles cases are climbing across the United States, reaching levels not seen in decades. While Oklahoma has avoided a major outbreak, health officials are closely monitoring the situation following a surge in Texas.

Doctors say low vaccination rates and increased travel are behind the spike, and they’re urging families to stay vigilant.

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92%: Oklahoma Kindergarteners with Up-to-Date MMR Vaccinations

According to the Oklahoma State Department of Health, 92% of kindergartners in the state were current on their measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR) vaccines for the 2023-2024 school year.

That high rate, experts say, is helping prevent outbreaks like the one in Texas. However, they caution that even isolated communities with lower vaccine coverage remain vulnerable.

“In Oklahoma, there are more sporadic cases compared to the big outbreak that we saw in Texas at this point,” said Dr. Mandy Griffin with Utica Park Clinic. “But the lower the vaccine rate in your local community, the higher the risk in your local community.”

SEE ALSO: Healthcare group launches statewide campaign to prevent spread of measles amid low vaccination rates

2000: The Year Measles Was Declared Eliminated in the U.S.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention declared measles eliminated in the U.S. in 2000. That means there was no continuous disease transmission for more than 12 months.

Now, doctors say they are seeing the most measles cases in nearly 30 years — a troubling trend that underscores the importance of immunization.

4: Key Early Symptoms to Watch For

Health officials are asking parents and the public to watch for signs of measles, especially after travel or potential exposure. The four main early symptoms include:

1. Fever
2. Runny nose
3. Cough
4. Rash (often starting on the face and spreading)

White spots inside the mouth, known as Koplik spots, may also appear before the rash.

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What Comes Next?

Dr. Griffin says travel is a major factor in the spread of the disease.

“It’s difficult to predict, but with as mobile as the world is these days and as much travel as occurs, this is part of why we’re seeing cases pop up so many places,” she said.

Doctors recommend checking your family’s vaccination records and contacting your physician or local health department if you believe you've been exposed to measles.

RELATED STORY: Measles outbreak sparks travel warning from Oklahoma health experts

More information about the disease, exposure and how to get the vaccine can be found on the Tulsa Health Department's website and the Oklahoma City-County Health Department's website.