In its latest update, the Texas Department of State Health Services (DSHS) said there were 259 cases of measles across the South Plains. Thirty-four patients were

" West Texas measles cases rise to 259. Here is what you need to know. " was first published by The Texas Tribune, a nonprofit, nonpartisan media organization that informs Texans — and engages with them — about public policy, politics, government and statewide issues.

Half of the newly reported cases are in Gaines County, about 80 miles southwest of Lubbock, which has been the epicenter of the outbreak. The Texas Department of State Health Services has confirmed 259 cases of measles since late January.

Since it started in late January, the Texas measles outbreak in the South Plains region of the state has surpassed 200 cases. Here's what we know.

There has been one confirmed measles death while officials in New Mexico determine if a recent death in the state was caused by measles.

Texas' largest measles outbreak in more than 30 years grew by another 36 cases on Friday, with a handful in two new counties.

The Texas health department reported 259 measles cases in the state on Friday, an increase of 36 cases from its previous count on March 11, as one of the largest outbreaks the U.S. has seen in the last decade spreads.